Friday, March 25, 2022
When Jesus healed two demoniacs, the people in that area got upset and asked Jesus to leave their country (Matthew 8:28-34). Why? Because, as a result of the healing, they had lost thousands of pigs. They valued their pigs more than the healing and restoration of two poor humans who had been tortured by demons.
The Islamic value system is not very different from those people’s ethics and principles. Often the dictates of society are of more import than the value of a human being. Conforming to the letter of their religion is more essential than showing compassion towards a needy person. In general, the Islamic value system is there to direct individuals’ behavior and control their thoughts.[1] If one steps outside the boundaries of traditions and customs, one exposes oneself to trouble. In other words, if one’s thoughts, plans, and actions are not aligned with those of the group, that person exposes himself to real danger.
Prayer
Christ, Lord, Master, Redeemer, and Savior, I pray first that you cleanse my heart from any dross or dregs. Look at my value system and reorient my convictions, behavior, actions, and decisions to be guided by the love of God. You desire of us mercy, not sacrifice (Hosea 6:6; Matthew 9:13; 12:7).
I pray for Muslims coming to God through faith in the mighty Savior. Only you, by the power of your Spirit, can readjust their value system and their priorities to express the values of the crucified, risen Savior. May they, through rebirth by the Spirit, renounce old things and “put on the Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 13:14, ESV). Lead them to understand and act upon your precepts based on sacrificial love. May the Sermon on the Mount light their way and reveal to them a new constitution and a new way to live.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Promise
By uprightness the blameless keep their course (Proverbs 11:5, REB).
2023 Praying for Muslims 