The idea of voluntary sacrifice is rare idea in our culture that is saturated with pleasure, instant gratification, and selfishness. Fasting by definition is abstaining from food. Many Christians think fasting is radical, however, Jesus said WHEN you fast (Matthew 6:16), not if you fast. So if Jesus said WHEN we fast, why are we not fasting? I believe most people don't understand it. My lack of understanding has lead me on a path of learning and listening because I want to understand. So these next few posts are going to be about what I have been learning about fasting.
Jesus has a burning desire for us, a firey passion. The depth of His love comes through to me by His tender mercy, His gladness of having a relationship with me, His zealousness. Until we fully understand our idendity in Christ, we won't understand our need to fast or even possess a desire to try it. Fasting positions our hearts to encounter Jesus as the Bridegroom. The purpose of fasting is to strengthen us in our quest to be preoccupied with God and His will. We fast in in order to encounter God more intimately, more profoundly, to change the world!
I read that and think, YES, YES, YES...I want that intimacy with my Abba daddy. I long for Jesus, so I fast. I want to fully embrace the discipline, the grace, the joy of fasting. So I challenge you, will you choose a day or two each week to say "I could eat that, but I won't because in my weakness, Christ strong, Christ is revealed." That is my hearts cry, deep, active intimacy with my DADDY. I want to experience HIS heart.
Abba, Father, draw me closer to your heart. Give me the grace to fast and to hear your voice!
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