This month’s Update focuses on help for churches in starting to reach out to Muslims – a new resource, a new working group for the Network and a local group’s story.
Even now, can we give thanks?
Even now, can we give thanks? - An update from the network
This month we look back at all God has done through Mahabba during the last academic year. We see the blessing of relational connections; the work of Mahabba to equip Christians in many spheres of society; and the continued momentum in prayer, that has allowed us to pursue our vision as a network, even in unusual times.
Network update: Making prayer practical
New 'Normal': New Possibilities
What could be? - an update from the network
This month we take a look at the opportunities for connection across the network, due to the crisis and consider what could be possible now that we have better use of online tools. We see how a regional ‘meet’ in London has demonstrated the opportunities for more regular joining together for prayer, equipping and training, across the Mahabba network.
Network update: Prayer & faith levels rising
Ramadan and Eid are over but prayer continues. How will it keep going and growing for you locally? Encouraging Prayer is one reason Mahabba exists. This month we’re sharing some fresh encouragements for prayer in the form of resources and opportunities to join in praying together, along with one group’s exciting story.
Prayer Connections
Prayer Connections - an update from the network
This month our #Lovefast campaign has encouraged many to join with other Christians and engage with prayer for Muslims during Ramadan. At a time when usual connection isn’t possible, PRAYER has still been at the heart of what we can do to reach out to others. This month’s update includes some of the ways this time has led to new breakthroughs and connections.
Lovefast 33 (Eid): Love
Image Unsplash
Day 33 (Eid)
Written by Chas from the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
If you’ve not signed up to receive the daily prompts to your inbox - see here →
Daily verse
“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.”
Thought for the day
Love (mahabba)
Do you remember how you first began to love Muslims? There are many ways we may have begun. How can this love be sustained in the coming year? Firstly, love comes not from ourselves rather ‘love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God’. (1 John 4:7-12) So we need to remain very close to the source of love - ‘Abide in my love.’ (John 15:9) Secondly, we need to live from His love in all our relationships - ‘They will know you are my disciples, if you love one another.’ (John 13:35) Then we can carry this love out into the world by sharing our faith verbally or by giving a Gospel to read; through our practical action and by inviting them into loving relationships; and through prayer leading to signs and wonders.
Let our love be genuine.
Prayer for the day
What has God been saying to you during Love Fast? Note two action points (in your prayer journal) for your future involvement with Muslims and resolve to keep on praying for them.
https://prayercast.com/love-muslims-home.html
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
Watch this video of UK Christian leaders addressing our Muslim friends. Continue to pray for your Muslim friends and consider joining the Mahabba Network as a way of keeping connected with your Muslim neighbours. Maybe you can become a Friend of Mahabba and support the ministry
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website
Lovefast 32 (Eid): Pray without ceasing
Image Unsplash
Day 32 (Eid)
Written by Phil from the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
If you’ve not signed up to receive the daily prompts to your inbox - see here →
Daily verse
“Pray without ceasing.”
Thought for the day
Pray without ceasing
We have now been praying for 30 days during the Ramadan fast. This has focused on both the global through the 30 Days of Prayer guide (promoted in UK by Interserve) and also our own Mahabba Lovefast prayer and action campaign which has had more of a local focus.
Muslims have been fervently praying during this period. They generally follow a pattern of 5 daily prayers (one of the 5 pillars of Islam), in a similar way to the Christian monastic tradition. The Muslim call to prayer is called the Adhan, a call for Muslims to bear witness that there is no other God but Allah and a plea to rush to prayer because prayer is better than sleep. The Adhan is currently banned in UK under the noise abatement act.
This Lovefast has also been a call to prayer. And we want to continue to ‘pray without ceasing’. Join in the Jumaa Prayer campaign every Friday at 12 noon to continue praying for your Muslim friends and neighbours. We will be posting more and look out for the hashtag #JumaaPrayer on social media.
Prayer for the day
Here are a few things to continue praying for Muslims throughout the year: https://www.mnnonline.org/news/continue-praying-for-muslims-as-ramadan-ends
Ask God to reveal His truth to Muslims in dreams and visions. Pray for Muslims to be hungry to read the Bible.
Ask the Lord to send more workers to reach Muslims with the Gospel. Pray for Muslims to be overwhelmed by trying to earn Allah’s favour, and instead find peace in God’s grace.
Pray for Muslims to be disillusioned by Islamic extremists and turn to the Lord for biblical truth. Join Christians around the world in praying for ten percent or more of the Muslim world to enter God’s Kingdom by 2028.
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
Join in the Jumaa Prayer campaign every Friday at 12 to continue praying for your Muslim friends and neighbours. Prayer makes all the difference. https://www.mahabbanetwork.com/friday-prayer-for-muslims
And don't forget to use the hashtag #JumaaPrayer on social media. (Feel free send us your prayer suggestions to be included.)
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website
Lovefast 31 (Eid): Celebrate
Image Unsplash
Day 31 (Eid)
Written by Phil from the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
If you’ve not signed up to receive the daily prompts to your inbox - see here →
Daily verse
“The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’”
Thought for the day
Celebrate
Muslims end Ramadan with the feast of Eid-al-Fitr, which is a time for Muslims at the end of the 30 days of fasting to dress up and celebrate with family. (Like Easter at the end of a long Lent or Christmas after the anticipation of Advent) This year we were unable to take part in Iftar parties at the time of breaking the fast (we love to hear any stories from you about what you were able to do instead).
When lockdown is all over, why not take the opportunity to invite your Muslim friends (along with others) for a meal in your home, or in your community. Eating together always builds community.
The #LoveFast we have been running during the #30days of #Ramadan is now over. The daily blogs will stop at the end of EID. Now it’s party time and the opportunity for us to start wishing Happy Eid to ALL our Muslim friends – learn to say the appropriate Arabic greetings: 'Eid Mubarak and Khair Mubarak'.
Prayer for the day
During the Lockdown of Coronavirus, people have had to stay home. Pray for Muslims as they find ways of celebrating Eid and being community under isolation.
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
Read about how Muslims celebrate Eid. Find out a good time to visit a Muslim friend and take them (or post them) a gift, maybe some dates or fruit, or something halal. You can leave it on their doorstep and maintain social distance. If you can't visit, send a card (or a message) to your muslim neighbour to celebrate Eid.
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website
Lovefast 30: Believers from a Muslim background (BMBs)
Image Unsplash
Day 30 of 30
Written by Karamat from the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
If you’ve not signed up to receive the daily prompts to your inbox - see here →
Daily verse
“After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.”
Thought for the day
Believers from a Muslim background (BMBs)
One outcome of globalisation has meant that people are more easily able to access information about faiths of other people. In our context this has included Muslims being able to access the gospel and stories of what God is doing in the lives of Christians. Then there is the age-old way that Jesus appears to Muslims, through dreams and visions. Some Muslims are put off by extremism and do not want to have anything to do with oppressive expressions of their religion. Having been brought up seeing God as a distant power, it can be attractive indeed to learn of a loving Father with whom one can have a personal relationship.
Occasionally Muslims do decide to go against the grain of their communities and become followers of Christ. Once taking this bold step, through the internet the new believers are able to make contact with others elsewhere who have taken the same step. Such believers need support and be discipled so that they can mature in their faith. This scenario can give rise to questions and challenges.
The BMBs are often from a different ethnic and linguistic background to the established church in the West. Is it more effective to enfold BMBs into existing churches or should they be encouraged to plant and develop their own churches?
Leaving Islam can sometimes bring shame on the BMBs, rejection from their birth community and intimidation by, and expulsion from, their relations. Can the church community they have joined become their new, chosen, family, to take the place of the one they have lost? Is the church able to help them navigate life between their previous and new lives? What sort of relationship should the BMB maintain with their birth family? When should they announce their conversion to the faith community they are seen to have deserted?
When one or two of the BMBs do wish to take on leadership roles in the church are white western Christians willing to accept such a move?
Prayer for the day
Thank you Lord, for our diverse society where many ethnic and religious groups have made their home. We especially thank you for the large Muslim presence. Help us as your church to fulfil the Great Commission.
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
If you have BMBs in your church, what steps can you take to meet their needs? Maybe ask their opinion.
If you are waiting for BMBs to join your church, what could you be doing to prepare for their arrival, so that you can be family for them and meet their discipleship needs?
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website
Lovefast 29: Somali Muslims in the UK
Day 29 of 30
Written by Miriam from the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
If you’ve not signed up to receive the daily prompts to your inbox - see here →
Daily verse
“Ask and it shall be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Thought for the day
Somali Muslims in the UK
Zahra, my Somali friend, regularly calls her sister who lives in the Netherlands to have a chat and to catch up on news about her nieces. She also has a brother in Norway, another sister in Italy and two more brothers in a refugee camp in Ethiopia, waiting for transfer to the United States where they have been given entry.
Following the explosion of civil war, resulting in (on-going) anarchy in their land in the early 1990s, Somalis have been dispersed to countries across the world so that now the diaspora population exceeds that within Greater Somalia itself. The Somali tradition of nomadic and collective identity means that Somalis crave connection and with access to up to date digital technology, they rely heavily on WhatsApp, facebook and internet chat rooms in order to maintain connection with family, clan and tribe.
Could it be that the conversations I have with Zahra about what God is really like and how we can know His presence in the midst of our daily struggles may be relayed to her sisters - one of whom may share it with her brother - who may include their other siblings - who may concur that they have heard similar things on Somali chat lines which are alive with questions. Questions which Somalis back home have never been allowed to ask before but are now taking the opportunity to find answers to in order to assuage the discontent that has been long stirring in their hearts?
Prayer for the day
Father, thank you for those who are engaged in sharing the Good News with Somalis via digital technology. Please give courage to those who are asking important questions to continue to seek answers and to come to a place of peace in finding deep connection with God, through Jesus. ’ASK' for God to connect you with a Somali.
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
Seek - watch this video 'open minded debate on Somali Identity' being brought up in UK. The Office for National Statistics estimates that 98,000 Somali-born immigrants were resident in the UK in 2016. Do some research and find out where Somalis live today. Let us know when you do find and connect with someone.
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website
Steve's vlog #6: Stepping up into invention
Lovefast 28: London - "I have many people in this city"
Image Unsplash
Day 28 of 30
Written by Chas from the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
If you’ve not signed up to receive the daily prompts to your inbox - see here →
Daily verse
“I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you, for I have many in this city who are my people.”
Thought for the day
London - "I have many people in this city"
There are over a million Muslims in London, a third of all Muslims in the UK. Muslims are very visible on the streets as many have become outwardly more religious. Girls as young as five can be seen wearing headscarves on occasion. Often men adopt beards and dress in the style of Muhammed.
Following radical attacks, these images can conjure fear in the minds of some. Yet the vast majority of Muslims are peaceful, and simply getting on with their ordinary lives. The reason for the more Islamic dress is most commonly a show of pride in their identity as they feel under scrutiny in these troubled times. And let's not forget the terrible attacks on Muslims too. When local mosques are visited, or simple conversations had in the street a warm welcome is given with gentleness and a deep respect for God.
London has thirty three boroughs. Currently eleven have a Mahabba prayer group. These groups meet regularly to pray for their borough and to offer training in sharing faith with their Muslim neighbours.
Prayer for the day
Pray for more Mahabba groups to start in London. Pray too that churches will engage more with the Muslim population around them by building bridges with local Muslim communities, reaching out in love, sharing Jesus and making disciples who reach their own community
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
If you live in London, or visit it this year, pray as you move around its streets for the Muslims who live here. Pray for a Mahabba group to start in each borough.
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website
Lovefast 27: "Jesus: more than a prophet"
Image Unsplash
Day 27 of 30
Written by Steve from the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
If you’ve not signed up to receive the daily prompts to your inbox - see here →
Daily verse
“Jesus said: “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They replied: ‘Some say…Elijah, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you Simon…for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven.””
Thought for the day
"Jesus : more than a prophet"
Ahmed is a fair-skinned stocky Egyptian in his early thirties. He came to a point in his life where he changed his heart allegiance to Jesus Christ. He told me that this happened to him not as a crisis, but through a process of reading the Qur’an. He noticed how Isa (Jesus) is always referred to in language that bestows more honour on him than Prophet Muhammed. He eventually came to realise that the superlative language about Jesus in his holy book includes, what appear to be, supernatural titles, which indicate that Jesus is more than a prophet.
So, Ahmed asked himself, if he is not of the same order as Muhammed, what is he? As he studied the titles of Jesus, such as ‘the Spirit of God’ (ruah allah) and the ‘Word of God’ (kilmat allah), he realised that they were pointing to something that even the Qur’an doesn’t explain or understand – that Jesus is more than a prophet. Ahmed’s last step was to conclude that this is so because Jesus is, in fact, divine.
Prayer for the day
Christians are now taking part in a prayer initiative called ‘Thy Kingdom Come’. People who associate with the Mahabba Network are saying “Amen” to that and praying that Muslims in Britain, as well as worldwide, will come into the Kingdom.
‘Father God, thank you that, not only is the Lord Jesus more than a prophet, but you are revealing it to Muslims around the world and in Britain today. May those who have fled here because of this revelation be nurtured and grow in faith to become apostolic, prophetic, evangelistic and pastoral people to other enquirers. May your Spirit reveal Jesus powerfully and supernaturally to millions more Muslims; for it’s in Jesus’ name we pray.’ - AMEN
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
Who do you know that leads prayer gatherings or disseminates information for church Notice Sheets? Why not contact them and ask that Muslims are included in the prayer for Thy Kingdom Come.
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website
Lovefast 26: Night of Power (Layat al-Qadr)
Image Unsplash
Day 26 of 30
Written by Phil from the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
If you’ve not signed up to receive the daily prompts to your inbox - see here →
Daily verse
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Thought for the day
Night of Power (Layat al-Qadr)
My friend told me how, at this stage in Ramadan, their mosque is transformed. All along the side walls, individual ‘tents,’ or compartments, are created by hanging up cloths. Devout Muslim men retreat into these for the last ten days in Ramadan and have no contact with the outside world; no mobile phone, no talking with others – just reading the Quran and praying, ensuring that they are observing the Night of Power whenever it falls.
Whether or not the Muslims in your town observe the Night of Power this evening, another evening near this date, or every evening in the last ten days, they will all be praying and seeking similar things. Cornelius in Caesarea was praying constantly to God and saw a vision; Saul in Damascus was praying and saw a vision. As a result, they met Peter and Ananias – and through them, Jesus. As we pray for Muslims to have dreams and see visions tonight, are we ready to be sought out, interpret their dreams and introduce them to Jesus?
Prayer for the day
Pray for the Muslims you know, that tonight they would have dreams and visions of Jesus. Watch dreams and visions.
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
Explain the Night of Power to your Christian friends and ask them to pray for Muslims tonight. Watch Night of Power.
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website
Lovefast 25: Fasting (in common)
Image Unsplash
Day 25 of 30
Written by Karamat from the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
If you’ve not signed up to receive the daily prompts to your inbox - see here →
Daily verse
“And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
Thought for the day
Lovefast 25: Fasting (in common)
As a Muslim child in Kashmir, fasting for me was a rite of passage, I had seen my elders do it and, for many years, I had aspired to grow up and be like them. Then one day, around the age of 8 or 9 years, I joined my family in getting up very early to have a big breakfast. “Eat as much as you can, you have a long day ahead,” said my mother. She was right. The evening meal was a long time coming. This was how fasting began for me. In later years I managed to fast for more and more days until one day I managed to do it for all the days of Ramzan. That year I enjoyed my Eid more than before. I felt I had earned it.
For 25 years now I have been a follower of Christ. I have learnt that fasting is something talked about in the Bible, in both the Old Testament and the New Testament. For example, we learn that Ezra and his community petitioned God by humbling themselves through fasting and God answered their prayer. In the verse above, from Matthew, Jesus says ‘when you fast’ not ‘if you fast’. In the verse Jesus also makes it clear that we should not fast for show (as the Pharisees did and as I did when I first began fasting).
When we deprive ourselves of something, it's a way to get serious with God. It's a conscious way to have a deeper conversation with our Heavenly Father. Modern day Christians fast in many different ways, by giving up what is important to them in their normal routines of life.
On occasions I have fasted by denying myself music, which is an integral part of my daily routine. It can be a little sacrifice such as when I am going on a short car journey or it can be for a longer period. One time I fasted from music during the whole of the 40 days of Lent. The first few days were really challenging but then I got into the flow. Having consciously spent more time with God certainly had an impact on me.
Prayer for the day
Thank you Lord, for the fasting Muslims in our community. Help us to learn from their discipline and dedication.
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
Go through your normal life and its routines. Is there anything that you can do without for a period of time? If so, this could be an opportunity for you to be more conscious of God and his provision for you.
Watch this video of British converts to Islam fasting during Ramadan for the first time.
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website
Lovefast 24: "Islam has done nothing for me"
Image Unsplash
Day 24 of 30
Written by Chas from the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
If you’ve not signed up to receive the daily prompts to your inbox - see here →
Daily verse
“I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.”
Thought for the day
Lovefast 24: "Islam has done nothing for me"
One Sunday morning a young man with tattoos and a trendy hair cut walked into our church in London. He said ‘Islam has done absolutely nothing for me,’ and that he wanted to start a new life. He knew the tattoos would most likely earn him a rebuke in the mosque.
There are many people like my friend in the UK. Typically they will have a cultural attachment to Islam, but little connection to its religious practices. Many are hungry for new life.
What positively affected my friend were three things. Firstly the warmth, friendship and unconditional acceptance by Christians. Secondly the presence of the Lord in our times of worship and prayer and thirdly his own need to start a new life.
Practising Muslims may be quite content with their religion for the time being, whereas those who have given up their religious practices and are searching for life will be open to something new. Jesus came not for those who thought they were righteous, but those who knew they needed help. Lets be aware of the cultural Muslims around us searching for new life.
Prayer for the day
Lord I pray that you would send people searching for new life to our church. Help us to welcome them with unconditional love.
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
Welcome visitors to your church unconditionally. Share with them the new life they can freely have in Jesus.
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website
Lovefast 23: Muslim Women 'in their own words'
Day 23 of 30
From the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
If you’ve not signed up to receive the daily prompts to your inbox - see here →
Daily verse
“The Lord gave the command; a great company of women brought the good news.
Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
Thought for the day
Lovefast 23: Muslim Women 'in their own words'
British Muslim women’s voices in the UK are worthy to be heard as they speak out regarding difficult issues. They’re artists, poets, playwrights, innovators, lawyers, campaigners, women’s advocates. Passionate for the welfare of women and writing as insiders, their voices speak clearly, not shrinking from issues of horror.
Through Novels: Razia, Abda Khan, 2019: …between Zaheer and Aneela, cowering on the cold stone-tiled floor, was a young woman. She was dressed in traditional salwar kameez…covered with stains…tears were running down her face…the girl let out muted sobs. Zaheer raised his hand.
A return the next week under the guise of looking for a lost earring confirms her worst fear: Razia, the young woman in the kitchen, is a domestic slave caught in the international route of bonded slavery.
Stained, Abda Khan, 2016: Time was still. Except for the tick tock, tick tock, tick tock. I was in this moment as though it were frozen. And so was I. I did not stir, but I knew I was drowning. My life as I had known it was slipping away.
Register our Marriage: Some Muslim women and men have started the Register Our Marriage campaign, aimed at reform of the 1949 Marriage Act. Led by Aina Khan, International Family Law Expert, the campaign raises awareness that spouses aren’t protected by English law if they’re in unregistered religious marriages conducted in the UK. The vision is to see a world where all religious marriages are legally registered.
Prayer for the day
Dear Father, thank you for gifting the women in our cousin culture with creativity and passion for the issues on Your heart. We pray that You would continue to flow through them to call out the abuse and marginalisation of Muslim women and girls within their own cultures. Do grant that what they have to say will find hearts that respond so that protection and care for women and girls will flourish in the UK. Lead these “leading women” into discovering who You are, Lord Jesus. May they find their hearts’ rest in You, realising that You are the One who brings justice.
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
Put Abda Khan’s novels, Razia and Stained, on your reading lists and form a reading/discussion group of interested people.
Read about Register Our Marriage (https://registerourmarriage.org/) and consider how the Lord might want you involved.
Consider ways, in your local area, that you can work alongside Muslim women regarding the issues of mutual concern.
Lend your support to their efforts.
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website
Lovefast 22: Loving Muslim international students
Image Unsplash
Day 22 of 30
By Rachel from the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
If you’ve not signed up to receive the daily prompts to your inbox - see here →
Daily verse
“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
Thought for the day
Loving Muslim international students
It is a sad reality that most Muslim international students who come to the UK to study come with a negative view of Christians. Many have been told that Christians live by the same morals as people of no faith. Most assume that Christians will not want to be their friends anyway. If, while here, Christians welcome them with love, support and hospitality, students leave with a very different understanding of Christians and, for many, of the Gospel. God works wonders when Christians step out in love towards Muslim international students! Not surprisingly, some come to believe and trust in Jesus while many return home with a renewed opinion of Christians and with seeds of the Gospel sown in their hearts.
Prayer for the day
Heavenly Father, may many Muslim international students meet loving Christians and be given the good news about Jesus. Please help us to be hospitable and our conversations to be “full of grace, seasoned with salt”. As students come and then return home, please transform lives and transform nations, for the glory of Jesus.
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
Encourage your church and Christian friends to be more hospitable to Muslim students, wherever they come from. Find out what Friends International. are doing in your area https://friendsinternational.uk and support their ministry.
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website
Lovefast 21: Kashmiri Muslims in the UK
Image BBC
Day 21 of 30
By Karamat from the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
If you’ve not signed up to receive the daily prompts to your inbox - see here →
Daily verse
““And who is my neighbour?” ..... “Which of these three do you think was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.””
Thought for the day
Kashmiri Muslims in the UK
There is evidence of Kashmiri presence in the UK as far back as the 1920s. However, this grew exponentially after World War II. The 1948 British Nationality Act facilitated large numbers of Kashmiris to arrive on these shores. They came to help rebuild our nation after its destruction by the Germans. The 1962 Commonwealth Immigration Act also led to large numbers of Kashmiris arriving here. The building of the Mangla Dam displaced tens of thousands of Kashmiris, especially from Mirpur, many of whom settled in the UK. It is estimated that of the million plus Pakistanis in the UK, around 750,000 are from Kashmir.
The UK Kashmiris are a very deprived community. As well as suffering from social class, race and religion discrimination, many also suffer from prejudice from fellow Pakistanis. It is conceivable that if Jesus was explaining who one’s neighbour is then he might possibly describe the good deeds of a Kashmiri.
It is encouraging to see a number of Kashmiris who have come into Christ’s family. Its also encouraging that there is now a growing presence of Christians in places such as Mirpur and other districts within Kashmir
Prayer for the day
Lord, we thank you for bringing the Kashmiris to our shores in large numbers. Please help us to understand their needs so that we can love them appropriately. Help us also Lord, to support the new Kashmiri believers in our churches and develop links with the church in Kashmir.
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
Find out who the Muslims are in your area. If they are from Pakistan, then find out whether any come from Kashmir. What are their particular needs and how can you support them, including through bridge-building with other communities? And why not watch an episode of Citizen Khan - a comedy - there're plenty of episodes on YouTube.
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website