Fasting

Fast

Isaiah 58

Matt 6:16-18

Exposure: Read the passage about fasting. Christmas is generally a time of feasting. Take at least a day to fast from something.

I'll take one day to fast from TV, and one from the computer. At this point those are the things that occupy me most. So I thought that was the best place to start. 

 

Exploration: Why do you think Jesus asked us to fast? What kind of fasting does Isaiah say the Lord requires?

I think that Jesus asked us to fast so that we could regain focus. I see that a lot in food, TV, PC, or mobilephones. You get so caught up in them, and spend more time with it. Junk food get's under your skin, just like all these electrical things, untill you feel you can't be without them. Isaiah says that the Lord requires that you help those who need it, feed them, clothe them, help them with heavy burdens, don't point fingers, don't badmouth. You take the time for everyone you see or meet. That you put everyone before yourself. 
 

Expression: Why do you think it is so difficult for people to make this a habit? How can you incorporate fasting into your regular habits of worship?

I think it's difficult on two 'levels'. The first is that it's difficult to fast since it means that you have to stay away from something. Most likely something you don't want to let go. On the other hand, people today are so occupied of their own life, they don't have room for anyone else. Nor do they want to. The want to be able to do the things they want to do, not thinking or feeling guilty for anyone else or the fact that they spend all their time on themselves.

Experience: Journal about your experiences with fasting. What did you learn? How did it change you? Consider joining a large group of believers who set aside the first 21 days of the New Year to fast.
I learned that when you first start out it's all good. Easy. As time passes, you discover all the time you've spent eating, or watching tv. You think of all the things you could have seen, eaten or done. A sort of craving where you don't see how you are going to make it through the day. Then it seems like the daily life takes over and you forget what you needed so bad. But when everythings quiet down and leaves an empty slot. It is very tempting to once again just do what you normally do. But then you see that you do not need it, time changes and leaves a better room for God and you think differently. Things are brighter. 

Till next time,
God Bless