Ramadan: We will pray

Photo: U.S. Embassy Jakarta, Indonesia/Flickr

Christians around the world will join in prayer for the Muslim world from July 20 through August 18 as Muslims enter their month of prayer and fasting called Ramadan. 

During Ramadan, Muslims focus on prayer and spiritual development. They fast from first light until nightfall, breaking the fast by eating large meals with extended family.

It is one of the most important Muslim celebrations of the year, and many Christians dedicate time during this month to pray for the Muslim world and specifically for their Muslim friends and neighbours.

Ramadan brings out a special feeling of emotional excitement and religious zeal among Muslims of all ages. A typical day of fasting begins around 4:30 a.m., when Muslims share a meal before beginning the fast at dawn. As dawn breaks, they offer the first of five daily prayers.

As the day proceeds and their hunger increases, fasting Muslims remind themselves that they are fasting for the sole purpose of pleasing Allah and seeking his mercy.

Muslims are encouraged to make special efforts to help the needy, both financially and emotionally, throughout the month. For this reason, Ramadan is also known as the month of charity and generosity. To a Muslim, fasting means abstaining not only from food but also from all vice and evils committed consciously or unconsciously.

As Muslims around the world begin their 30-day period of soul-searching, many set aside this time to intercede for them.

Will you pray? 

• Pray that many Muslims will learn the truth about Jesus. 
• Pray that all Christians will better love their Muslim neighbours.
• Pray for Christians in Muslim countries who face discrimination and persecution because of their faith.
• Pray that Christians in Muslim countries will be a loving witness of Jesus Christ, despite opposition.
• Pray for wisdom and guidance for the leaders of Muslim countries.

Please add your own prayers and prayer requests in the comments section below.