Nik Ripken Ministries
March 26, 2025

Embracing a Missionary Heart During Ramadan: Reaching Our Muslim Neighbors with Love and Understanding

Ramadan presents a unique opportunity for Christians to build genuine relationships with their Muslim neighbors through empathy, hospitality, and intentional prayer. Drawing wisdom from the persecuted church, believers are encouraged to overcome fear, engage with love, and share their faith with gentleness and respect. By reflecting Christ's heart during this sacred season, we can foster meaningful connections that point others to the hope of the gospel.

As the crescent moon ushers in Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, Muslims around the world embark on a 30-day journey of fasting, prayer, and reflection. This sacred time offers Christians a unique opportunity to demonstrate the love of Christ to their Muslim neighbors. Drawing from the experiences of persecuted believers, we can find inspiration and practical guidance to engage meaningfully during this season.​

Understanding the Significance of Ramadan

Ramadan is a period marked by deep spiritual devotion for Muslims. From dawn until sunset, they abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs, focusing instead on prayer, purification, and community. Recognizing the importance of this month can foster empathy and respect, laying the groundwork for genuine relationships.​

Overcoming Fear with Love

Fear often hinders meaningful engagement between Christians and Muslims. Ruth, with over 35 years of mission experience, emphasizes the necessity of overcoming this fear. She advocates for hospitality and intentional outreach, especially among women, to build bridges of understanding and friendship. You can listen to her full talk here.

Practical Steps to Engage During Ramadan

  1. Extend Hospitality: Inviting Muslim neighbors to share a meal after sunset can open doors to heartfelt conversations. Sharing food is a universal expression of friendship and can break down barriers.​
  2. Learn and Listen: Take the time to understand Islamic practices and beliefs. Ask questions and listen actively. This not only shows respect but also provides insights into their spiritual journey.​
  3. Share Your Faith Gently: As trust develops, be prepared to share your own faith experiences. Nik reminds us that serving God is about obedience, not location.
  4. Pray Intentionally: Commit to praying for your Muslim friends during Ramadan. Pray for their well-being and for opportunities to share the gospel.​

Learning from the Persecuted Church

Believers in persecuted contexts offer profound lessons in faithfulness and courage. Their unwavering commitment to Christ, even in the face of adversity, challenges us to be bold yet compassionate in our witness. Engaging with their stories can inspire us to live out our faith authentically. 

Conclusion

Embracing a missionary heart toward Muslims during Ramadan is an opportunity to reflect Christ's love in tangible ways. By overcoming fear, extending hospitality, and sharing our faith with gentleness and respect, we can build bridges that lead to transformative relationships. As we engage, let us remember the words of Jesus: "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31).​

For further insights and practical tools on engaging with Muslims, consider exploring resources from Nik Ripken Ministries.