“Iftar” Means “Oh My Goodness, That’s Yummy!”

(It doesn’t really mean that!)

It’s hard to have good thoughts toward people you’ve only heard bad things about. Rocket science, right? But that’s our situation sometimes with Muslims. Most of what non-Muslims hear and read about them is unpleasant and negative.

Without judging the validity of any particular negative thing written or said about Muslims, I’d like to make the smallest of efforts to tip the scale in the slightest positive manner.

Here’s my assertion:
Muslims eat some killer great food! I’m serious. Some Muslim meals are the culinary equivalent of riding a roller coaster with your best friend through the Grand Canyon wearing a brand new Apple watch while winning a solo game of Fortnite! It will make you want to live forever just so you can eat. (Tweet this.)

If you read last week’s Muslim Connect, you’re aware that Ramadan starts soon. One of the high lights of the month of fasting is the daily breaking of the fast called iftar.

A billion and a half Muslims inhabit thousands of cultures with countless cuisines. Most, though, will break the fast each evening by first eating dates. If you’ve never had dates, buy the smallest package you can and try them. You may thank me. If you hate them, send them to me and I’ll thank you.

Depending on where they’re set, iftar tables will also be laden with biryani, grilled beef and chicken, falafel, naan, noodles, curries beyond counting and garlic sauce that will reach up and smack you in the face! I wouldn’t advise converting in order to enjoy iftar feasts, but I wouldn’t blame you for considering it!

Here’s some good news, you might be able to join an iftar meal this Ramadan. My bud Jeff is helping coordinate a national registry of meals that are open to guests. If you find nothing near you, take a little risk, call your nearest mosque and say, “I was just wondering. . . .”
You still have time to grab some copies of 30 Days of Prayer for the Muslim World to help you and your friends pray for Muslims during Ramadan. There’s even a kids’ version!