Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Navratri - Day 8

Today is the 8th day of Navratri.  It is devoted to Mahagauri.  Unmarried girls often pray specifically for their husbands on this day.  They will also pray to this goddess for protection. On this day the fasting of Navratri often comes to an end.  Today is considered one of the most auspicious days of the festival.

Tonight many people will celebrate with a yagna. A yagna is a "ritual of sacrifice". Families will gather around the sacrificial fire at home or at the temple and present offerings to the gods (along with a Hindu priest in many cases). Everything that is offered into the fire is believed to reach the gods (which is also why Hindus cremate). 

During the days of this festival, it is common for believers to experience increased tension and opposition.  Please pray for the Followers of Jesus on this day.  Please pray that they look for opportunities to share about Jesus.  Please pray that they are wise in the middle of opposition and persecution and that they are bold as well.


"The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear?  The Lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid?  When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall.  Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear;  thought war break out against me, even then I will be confident."
Psalm 27:1-3

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