Day 19 of 30
By Georgina from Mahabba’s Network Team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
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Daily verse
“And as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to them, and said, “Take; this is my body...”
Thought for the day
Flatbread
In a meeting of university students during an interfaith lunch, we were talking about Easter and reading about the Last Supper (Mark 14:12-26).
A long conversation followed about which bread it was that Jesus broke.
The Jewish student found the English translation of 'bread' problematic for a Passover meal and we quickly explained that it most probably meant unleavened bread.
A visiting Somali student insisted that it must have been a flat bread like those used across East Africa.
He is convinced that parts of Somalia has maintained the cultures of the Middle East in a pristine way, so that Muslims and Christians could today learn from Somalis about their early practices.
The Christians in the group had no issue with the type of bread.
Instead they explained that the importance for them lay in Jesus' explanation that the elements of the Passover meal, bread and wine, would become symbols of his body and blood poured out for us.
It was fascinating to see the questions that were brought to the text from our Jewish and Somali friends.
Equally, the students left with a fresh understanding of the Last Supper and its significance having nurtured our bodies and minds around a table.
Prayer for the day
Lord Jesus, help us to listen carefully and think deeply with those around, so that we may all hear your invitation to communion with you.
Daily action
Try some flatbread with your favourite filling, e.g. humous, yoghurt and falafel. Try making your own and sharing with friends
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment below, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media. You can find us on Facebook and Twitter!
Resources
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.