Ramadan is one of the five requirements (or pillars) of Islam. During each of its 30 days, Muslims are obligated to fast from dawn until sunset. During this time they are supposed to abstain from food, drinking liquids, smoking, and sexual relations.
At sunset, families often gather to break the fast. According to the tradition of Mohammed, families break the fast with a drink of water, then three dried date fruits, and a multi-course meal.
In the Malay world, some local governments have chosen to enforce Ramadan rules with the threat of criminal punishment. Younger Malay people may be tempted, especially in the cities, by non-Muslims who go about their day eating and drinking. Others will choose to go beyond the fast and read through the entire Quran during Ramadan.
This sincere seeking makes it a strategic time for us to pray for them. Jesus says those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be filled or satisfied (Mt 5:6). Paul says Jesus is our righteousness (1 Cor 1:30). Let's pray that the Malay will find deep satisfaction in Jesus during Ramadan. May the bread of life and the one who gives living water that will quench our everlasting thirst be known by the Malay (John 4:10, 6:35).
