Once in
a lifetime
In Islam there are five pillars. One of these pillars is the pilgrimage, or
Hajj, which should be performed at least once in a Muslim’s lifetime if they
are physically and financially able to do so.
All the pilgrims wear two, very simple, white garments which
they see as stripping away all distinctions of wealth, status, class and
culture so that they stand together equal as they perform the various rites
associated with the pilgrimage.
In 2014, over 2 million Muslims from all over the world
gathered in Mecca in Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj.
Grace not works
A friend of mine performed Hajj a few years ago and it was
fascinating talking with him afterwards about his experience. He explained that through performing Hajj he had
been forgiven of all the sin in his life up to that point – that’s what he
understood anyway.
However, we know that the way of forgiveness and
reconciliation with God is not through our ‘works’. “For it is by God's grace that you have been
saved through faith. It is not the result of your own efforts, but God's gift,
so that no one can boast about it.” Ephesians 2:8-9 (GNB)
Happening now
This year’s Hajj is now underway. There is a webcam showing live what’s
happening at the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Why not take a few minutes to have a look and
to pray for those taking part.
http://live.gph.gov.sa/
