It happens regularly: I’ll be watching a movie with my family and then something tragic happens — a farm accident, a sudden case of smallpox, or a dangerous cough.

Someone on screen cries out, “Send for the doctor!”

Though I’ve never personally experienced a house call from my physician, I’m always reminded of when Jesus went to the home of a tax collector named Levi and reclined at his table with other tax collectors and sinners. The Pharisees hated this and grumbled (much like me, wishing the doctor would visit my ill children at home). Then, in typical Jesus-fashion, He cleverly rebuked the Pharisees, saying, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance” (Luke 5:31).

During this month, Muslims all over the world celebrate the Islamic holiday of Ramadan. Ramadan is the name of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and the holiday is observed as Muslims worldwide fast from all food and drink from sunup until sundown. This fasting is to bring them closer to Allah as they pray five times daily, disconnect themselves from worldly desires, and remember those less fortunate than themselves. Muslims believe that in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, in the year 610 A.D., a man named Muhammed had a vision of the angel Gabriel telling him that he was a prophet from Allah and he was to lead his people. Muslims now use this holiday to celebrate what they believe about Muhammed’s calling.

So what does all this mean for followers of Jesus? Jesus went into the homes of those that needed Him. That calling is the same today for you and me, who are called to proclaim the gospel. Jesus knew that bridges of trust and friendship can be nurtured by sharing a table. Through laughter. Through stories. Through listening.

During this month of Ramadan, Muslims gather for large fast-breaking meals at sundown. It’s a perfect opportunity to build a bridge of relationship and invite Muslim friends over for a late-night feast, or ask if you can experience the feast in their home. Ask questions about what they believe and find out why this month is special to them. Just be prepared to give an answer when they ask you the same types of questions.

John makes disciples in Kansas City, and soon hopes to move with his family to Asia.