And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites…” (Matthew 6:16). Here in increasingly Muslim Germany, I keep bumping into Islam’s season of fasting. Like this sign at a local supermarket: “We wish you a happy Ramadan.” Then, four days ago in Germany’s Parliament, the politicians (who are almost all ethnic German) broke the Ramadan fast (see below) after sundown and even implemented Islamic sex segregation during the prayers —with male parliamentarians segregated in one section of the room and female politicians in another. Then yesterday morning, a lady in Afghanistan who reads my daily Christian devotions (and doesn’t know much about Christianity yet) wished me a blessed Eid (end of Ramadan). At first glance, one might think that Ramadan and Lent are similar. Actually, they could hardly be more different. In Christianity, the season of fasting lasts from Ash Wednesday to Easter Vigil, whereas during the season of Ramadan, devout Muslims fast only from dawn to sunset and then break the fast every evening. In fact, I have heard of Muslims gaining weight during Ramadan, presumably because they overindulge after sundown. Most importantly, though, Ramadan fasting (as one of the Five Pillars of Islam) is essential for Muslims, although they are never guaranteed entry into Paradise. In contrast, Jesus promises eternal salvation to all Christians who are baptized and believe in Him. Especially during this season of Lent, let us pray that the growing number of Muslims in Germany (and in the rest of Europe) would hear the joyful message of Jesus Christ, who guarantees salvation to His flock—no fasting required.
The Tiews in Germany 