Tabaski

Tabaski teaches that Abraham wanted to sacrifice his son, Ishmael. But God saved Ishmael, and he gave Abraham a ram as a substitute. Abraham slaughtered the ram in place of Ishmael.

So, until now, Muslim believers slaughter a ram in order to cover their sins. They ask forgiveness of their sins for the entire year.

But people who are Christians know Jesus is the final and perfect sacrifice to make forgiveness of the sins of all people everlasting.

This was part of our language exercise today, learning the culture and meaning behind the Muslim holiday that is celebrated today and tomorrow (June 20-21). One adolescent told me today that it is his favorite holiday of the year.

Families go to great extremes to celebrate. They spend what amounts to a 2 month salary for the things for the sacrifice (wood, charcoal, the animal, bread, spices, and oil are necessary purchases). They buy a male sheep. If they can't find a male sheep, then a female sheep, then a goat, then a cow, and last a camel. The men spend the morning slaughtering the animal and preparing the bbq spit. On the first night they eat the internal parts with spices. And the second night they eat the meat snd share with neighbors. 

Our family made cookies and purchased candies to share with neighbors and especially neighbor children this week. We want to be a small presence in our neighborhood during this festival to build relationships and to share our faith in Jesus.

Someone asked me today where my ram was. I told the group that as a Christian I believe Jesus is my sacrifice for my sins. 

Please pray we are bold in sharing our faith when we have opportunities. And please continue to pray for our language learning as we have so much still to learn.

Thank you for lifting us up to the First and the Last.