The Southern Baptist Convention’s International Mission Board (IMB) has kicked off an inspiring initiative aimed at fostering prayer for Muslims during the sacred month of Ramadan. This initiative, aptly named “Pray for Ramadan,” invites Christians to engage in heartfelt prayer for their Muslim neighbors as they observe this significant period of fasting and reflection, which runs from February 28 to March 29 this year.
April Bunn, the director of the IMB’s Prayer Office, shared insights about the campaign in a recent correspondence. She emphasized the dual focus of the initiative: to lament the spiritual lostness of many while simultaneously celebrating the hope found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. “Our goal is to guide intercessors to spend time in prayer, recognizing both the need for salvation and the joy that comes from faith in Christ,” Bunn explained.
During Ramadan, Muslims around the globe engage in fasting from dawn until dusk, a practice intended to cultivate a deeper spiritual awareness and connection with God. Bunn noted, “While many Muslims seek favor with Allah through their rituals, we believe that true reconciliation with God comes only through faith in Jesus.” This belief underpins the IMB’s commitment to pray for the salvation of Muslims during this holy month.
The “Pray for Ramadan” campaign offers a structured prayer experience. Participants can sign up for specific times to pray, receiving daily reminders and resources to support their intercession. Each day, intercessors will learn about different people groups, receive Scripture to pray over Muslims, and gain insights into the significance of Ramadan. Bunn highlighted the unique aspect of community in this initiative, stating, “Intercessors will see how many others are praying for the same needs each day, creating a powerful sense of unity in our requests before God.”
Bunn expressed her hope that God will draw Muslims closer to Himself through the prayers of Christians worldwide. “We firmly believe that God is capable of doing incredible things, and we are excited to partner with Him in this intercessory prayer effort,” she said. The ultimate aspiration is to witness a day when believers from diverse backgrounds, including those who come from a Muslim heritage, gather together in worship before the throne of God.
Ramadan is recognized as one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar. It is a time for Muslims to cultivate self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and a heightened awareness of God’s presence. According to the Islamic Networks Group, the goal of fasting during this month is to achieve greater God-consciousness, known in Arabic as taqwa. This spiritual discipline encourages individuals to practice self-restraint and foster a commitment to doing good while avoiding wrongdoing.
As Christians engage in prayer for Muslims during Ramadan, it serves as a powerful reminder of the call to love one’s neighbor and share the hope of the Gospel. This initiative not only strengthens the bonds of faith within the Christian community but also opens doors for dialogue and understanding between different faiths.
In conclusion, the “Pray for Ramadan” campaign stands as a testament to the importance of prayer in the life of a believer. It encourages Christians to intercede for those who are seeking God, all while fostering a spirit of unity and hope. As we approach this holy month, let us join together in prayer, asking God to work in the hearts of Muslims around the world and to draw them closer to the truth of the Gospel.