Tonight at sundown, our Islamic friends begin their month-long observance of Ramadan.  Probably most of us have not experienced Ramadan personally, but many have observed the devotion with which friends or acquaintances adhere to this month of fasting.  For Muslims worldwide, Ramadan is a month of prayer, reflection, and community.  Fasting from dawn to sunset is obligatory, with exceptions for a few such as the acutely ill, children or elderly.  A predawn meal is referred to as “suhur.”  The nightly feast which breaks the fast at sundown is called “iftar.”  In between those two, the Islamic people go about their daily work without food or water.  The period of fasting is a reminder to devote themselves to prayer.  I have respect for this spiritual commitment.

Now, lest you misunderstand, I am not suggesting that you and I should observe Ramadan.  But as Christians we also have seasons of the church year that call for a deeper commitment.  We are now nearing the conclusion of the season of Lent.  Have we made a personal commitment this year:  giving up something we usually enjoy, giving more of ourselves and our possessions to help others, or giving more of our time to prayer and Bible study?  Giving is the key word here.  It’s not too late.  Let’s make this week’s journey one of devotion to the Lord who surrounds us with his unconditional love.

Judy