Subject: [Masjid Tucson] Submission weekly reminder In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful Peace be upon you, God created us and knows our that the distractions of our daily lives frequently keep us from remembering Him "while standing, sitting, or lying on our sides." (Quran 3:191, 4:103) Eating & drinking are a big part of our daily routine: and God's design of fasting gets our attention. It helps us remember God, and that the real person is the soul, not the body. As we complete our fasts of Ramadan, we should strive to be aware that all provisions are given by God, and that all creatures are provided for (Quran 11:6). What a blessing, and how often do we take it for granted? [Quran 2:183] O you who believe, fasting is decreed for you, as it was decreed for those before you, that you may attain salvation [2:184] Specific days (are designated for fasting); if one is ill or traveling, an equal number of other days may be substituted. Those who can fast, but with great difficulty, may substitute feeding one poor person for each day of breaking the fast. If one volunteers (more righteous works), it is better. But fasting is the best for you, if you only knew. As we thank God for our provisions when we break fast today, let us remember that Ramadan itself is a great gift and provision. Our religious duties constitute the nourishment required for the growth and development of our souls. Without such nourishment, we cannot survive the immense energy associated with God's physical presence on the Day of Judgment. Belief in God does not by itself guarantee our redemption; we must also nourish our souls (6:158, 10:90-92)! {subtitle} Requirements of the Test [6:158] Are they waiting for the angels to come to them, or your Lord, or some physical manifestations of your Lord? The day this happens, no soul will benefit from believing if it did not believe before that, and did not reap the benefits of belief by leading a righteous life.* Say, "Keep on waiting; we too are waiting." *6:158 After believing, the soul must grow and develop through the worship practices prescribed by God. References: http://www.masjidtucson.org/submission/practices/ramadan/ramadangiftrememberance.html http://www.masjidtucson.org/quran/appendices/appendix15.html Peace.