Remembering Ramadan

Ramadan begin on Monday, August 1st and continues through August 29th.  It is the Islamic holy month of fasting.  From Sun rise to sun down, Muslims across the world cease to eat or drink.  They refrain from sexual relations as well.  Then, at sundown the fast is broken (usually by eating dates and drinking water), followed by a meal that is shared with family, friends, and neighbors.  Over the years I've participated in several and was invited to one this evening, but am unable to attend -- this time.  

I thought it valuable to note the purpose of Ramadan:

The word Ramadan is derived from the Arabic word Ramida, meaning intense scorching heat and dryness especially the ground. Ramadan is the ninth month of an Islamic Calendar. Muslims believe that during the month of Ramadan the Holy book Quran was sent down from heaven as guidance for men and also as a direction and a means to Salvation.

Being that I've not been very successful at fasting, I am always impressed that an entire community can commit itself to such a stringent experience.  My Muslim friends tell me that while difficult, the experience focuses their attention on God, drawing them closer to God.  We can all learn from their experiences of faith, even if our own faith is different.

So, to my Muslim friends, may your Ramadan experience be blessed.  And to my Christian friends, I say, may we learn something from their devotion to God.

Comments

Gary said…
There is nothing of value to learn from Islam. ALL Muslims are going to Hell. Along with all who think there is some good in Islam.
John said…
What a barbaric and unmerciful wish.
Gary said…
John,

It isn't a wish, it's a fact, based on the Bible.
Brian said…
People who think like Gary vote.
The Koch brothers know it.
Gary said…
Islam is a false religion. That means that what Islam teaches is not true. Allah is not God. Mohammed was a liar and is now in Hell. If Muslims wish to avoid damnation, they must turn from Islam to Jesus Christ.

Also, those who claim to be Christians, but are not, must turn from their false religion to Christ, or they will suffer the same damnation as the Muslims.
John said…
And this is how love treats the earnest and perhaps wayward?

Gary, are you troubled about the consequence of your mistakes - knowing that divine punishment is certain, inescapable, and permanent?
Gary said…
John,

What would you tell the Muslims?
John said…
I tell them that God loves them, as much as God loves me. and all the rest of God''s children. And I hope they get to engage God face to face one day and feel the full warmth of real love.
Gary said…
John,

That message will result in them going to Hell. You'd better let me talk to them.
John said…
No chance we can work together on this one?
Brian said…
Gary didn't ask me what I'd tell Muslims, but I'll comment anyway. First off, I'd prefer to listen and learn rather than talk. Secondly, I'd tell them that we have much in common RE: concern for the poor. Let's focus on that. We can leave life after death issues to God.

BTW - "Allah" is nothing more than the Arabic word for God. Long before Mohammed was born, Arabic Christians were praying to Allah. They still are. So are you Gary. You're just doing it in 'merican.
Gary said…
Brian,

Anyone who thinks Allah and Jehovah are the same is ignorant.

Since you are not a Christian, I can understand why you would like to listen to the Muslims, and why your concern is for this world only.

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