“When the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous thing we had done, but because of his mercy.” (Titus 3:4-5)
Special season for earnest prayer
Let’s pray for the 304 million Muslim people in East Asia during April. Their fasting month of Ramadan marks the time when Muslims believe the Qur’an was first revealed to Muhammad. It’s a great opportunity to pray for God to bless Muslims, praying that they would learn more about Jesus. This year Ramadan runs from April 2 to May 1.
SUNDAYS • Praying for spiritual insight
Ramadan is a significant month of the year for Muslims. The entire Qur’an is read in special sessions in Mosques throughout the month. Isa, the Islamic Arabic name of Jesus, is honored in the Qur’an. Pray that as Muslims hear the Qur’an being read they would have opportunities to learn more about Jesus.
MONDAYS • Families and communities
Many Muslims believe the ones who truly follow Islam are at perfect peace with themselves and others. Pray for God to be at work healing strained relationships and strengthening families and communities throughout East Asia as Muslims celebrate the month-long fast together.
TUESDAYS • God’s forgiving grace
Did you know Muslims believe in a Day of Judgement? It is the day when good and bad acts are weighed by Allah. Muslims hope to have done enough good acts to give them an afterlife in Paradise. Fasting during Ramadan is considered a good act. Pray for God to bless Muslims and learn of his love for all people.
WEDNESDAYS • Praying for the “cousins”
Did you know some Christians refer to Muslims as their Abrahamic cousins? In Islamic history, Ishmael, Isaac’s half-brother, is a prophet and ancestor of Muhammad. Many Muslims believe the Tawrat (Pentateuch) is a holy book sent down by Allah as guidance and light. Pray that East Asian Muslims might learn more about the common patriarchs in the Bible and Qur’an.
THURSDAYS • The names of God
Did you know that the Subha is a string of 33 prayer beads used by devout Muslims to chant the ninety-nine beautiful names of Allah? Muhammad is quoted as saying “The Most High Allah has ninety-nine names and whoever enumerates them will enter into Paradise.” Isa al Masih (Jesus the Messiah) is honored as a prophet in the Qur’an. Pray that many Muslims may learn more about his name.
FRIDAYS • Compassion and grace
Did you know that older Muslims or those with underlying health conditions are not expected to keep the fast, making charitable gifts instead? However, many will observe the fast and find it physically challenging. Give thanks for Christ’s compassion for those who are struggling with age or poor health. Pray for wise advice from medical personnel during this season.
SATURDAYS • Every tribe and nation
In the book of Revelation, the Bible reveals that in the new creation all cultures will be there, “. . . and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.” (Rev. 5:9) Ask God to help us think of all people as he does. Pray that more believers would intercede for God’s blessing over Muslims this Ramadan.