asting is a spiritual discipline observed by millions of Christians and Muslims worldwide during Lent and Ramadan as we are currently doing. While these periods of fasting are deeply personal and faith-driven, their true impact should go beyond individual spirituality and transform society. If observed with sincerity and purpose, Lent and Ramadan can inspire values such as compassion, integrity, generosity, and social justice, leading to a better world.

As millions around the world observe Lent and Ramadan, the essence of these sacred seasons goes beyond just fasting from food. The true test of our faith is not in what we abstain from during these periods, but in the transformation that follows. If fasting is to have a meaningful impact, it must lead to lasting change in our attitudes, actions, and interactions with others—especially in promoting peace, justice, and good neighborliness.

Cultivating Compassion and Kindness

Lent and Ramadan emphasize self-denial and reflection, helping people shift their focus from personal desires to the needs of others.

Christians are encouraged to give to the poor, visit the sick, and help the needy (Isaiah 58:6-7).Muslims practice Zakat (charity), ensuring that those in need receive support.A society where people care for the vulnerable will experience less crime, poverty, and suffering.Both faiths emphasize forgiveness, humility, and reconciliation during these fasting periods.Christians seek to mend broken relationships and let go of grudges, following Jesus' command to forgive (Matthew 6:14-15).Muslims strive to purify their hearts from hatred, as Prophet Muhammad encouraged kindness and unity.

If more people practice forgiveness and peace, there would be fewer conflicts, family disputes, and community divisions

Fasting Should Not Be Seasonal

It is often observed that during Ramadan, many refrain from wrongdoing, violence, and unethical behaviors only to resume them immediately after. The same applies during Lent, where some give up bad habits for 40 days, only to return to them afterward. But does true devotion only last for a season?The God we serve is the same before, during, and after fasting. Goodness should not have an expiration date.If it is wrong to harm our neighbors during fasting, it is equally wrong afterward.

If Ramadan and Lent teach us kindness, peace, and charity, these values must continue beyond the season.

Rejecting Violence and Promoting Lasting Peace

One of the gravest tragedies of religious extremism is killing and harming others in the name of faith, especially during sacred times like Ramadan. No religion teaches hatred, terrorism, or senseless violence. If we can coexist peacefully during fasting, we can do so after.Jihad should not mean killing innocent people, but rather a personal struggle against sin and evil.Christianity calls for loving one’s neighbor and seeking peace with all men (Romans 12:18).Both faiths emphasize the sanctity of life, and breaking this command brings dishonor, not blessings.

Carrying the Spirit of Goodness Beyond Fasting

During Lent and Ramadan, people engage in prayer, charity, and self-discipline—why should these virtues stop once fasting ends? Imagine a world where:Corruption does not return after Ramadan.Greed and selfishness do not take over after Lent.Communities remain peaceful beyond the fasting season.This is the true essence of faith—a transformed life, not just a temporary sacrifice.

As we conclude these fasting seasons, let us commit to a lasting change,let us reject violence permanently, not just during Ramadan or Lent. Let us be good neighbors, showing love, tolerance, and understanding all year round.Practice integrity and honesty every day, not just when fasting.Make charity a lifestyle, not a seasonal act.

Let our fasting produce lasting fruits in our societies. God is honored not by temporary righteousness but by a life truly transformed.

Let peace reign before, during, and after fasting in our nations!

Pastor Amos Dada is a trained engineer with the call of a preacher. Lives in Toronto. Reachable at [email protected]