Ramadan Mubarak!

Gasp!

What?!

That's right, my friends. Today is the start of Ramadan for our Muslim friends and co-workers.

Ok, Servant Leader, before anyone goes off on how a Christian can celebrate the Muslim holy month, let's set the record straight. Christianity and Islam are inextricably linked through Abram/Abraham and Sarai/Sarah. (Genesis 16-18) While Christian and Muslim beliefs diverge at this point, we both still worship the God of Abraham.

Rather than focusing on those differences, let's focus on what we can do to show Christ's love to our Muslim friends and co-workers who observe the rules of Ramadan. Here are three simple things anyone can do during Ramadan to show solidarity and the love of Christ:

1. First, be understanding. Remember - they're hungry! That's the point of fasting during Ramadan, the same as Christian fasting. It reminds us of the goodness of all things given by God. So, when you plan events in your workplace this month, maybe forego the big communal lunch? Instead, take that time and break it up throughout the day so non-Muslims can retire to their offices or workspaces and grab a snack without becoming a stumbling block.

2. Second, be inclusive. We say either all of the Bible is true or none of it is. Similarly, healthy Muslims don't have a choice to not fast and pray during Ramadan, so respect their decision and find ways to include their devotions in your workday. That doesn't mean Christians should participate in fasting or prayers, but make allowances for our Muslim friends who do.

3. Third, be honest. If your workspace can't or won't accommodate for specific Muslim practices during Ramadan, communicate that clearly. Not everyone can avoid food during the workday and not every workplace can break five times a day for prayers. Be honest and communicate this with your Muslim employees so they can make arrangements.

Servant Leader, being kind to our Muslim co-workers and friends during Ramadan isn't really a choice. If either the whole Bible is true or none of it is, then...

"Jesus said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’" (Matt 22:37-39, NKJV)

That's about as clear as it gets.

(Photo: IslamiCity.com)