Joining in prayer
On my way home from holiday a few days ago I saw a number of
men and women at the airport dressed ready for Hajj. They were making their way to Saudi Arabia
for this annual pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam.
The clothing is distinct and easily recognisable. The men wear two pieces of white towelling
material. The idea is that they all look
the same, showing that there is no difference between someone who is wealthy
and influential, and someone who is poor and uneducated.
Today, 9th September, is the first day of Hajj. Around 2 million people are gathered there for
Hajj, seeking forgiveness and spiritual fulfilment. It’s good for us to be praying at this time,
praying for them, praying that many really would come to know God’s forgiveness
– available not by works, but God’s grace, because of Jesus.
Live coverage
Recently I was sent the link to a short video about Hajj, which I found interesting. If you would like to know more about what happens on Hajj
and how to pray, then you might find this five minute YouTube video helpful too: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-x3WNVw13k&feature=youtu.be
Also, it is possible to watch what’s happening live at the
Grand Mosque in Mecca via a webcam.
Here’s the link: http://mecca.net/mecca-live-prayers/ Scroll down on that page to watch the live streaming.
Above all, let’s pray.