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Fast and pray…
Fasting is one of those things in the church that we do not talk about that much. Because of Jesus’ warning in Matthew 6:16-18, people that fast generally do not usually talk about it. I was fortunately enough to have spiritual mentors that did talk about it. So, for me, praying and fasting are connected. I cannot separate them. However, I wish I were better at both praying and fasting. I wish I did not struggle with them. Not better, to look religious, but better to be closer to God.
Jesus says that when the bridegroom is taken they will fast. We are living in the day Jesus is talking about. So, what does that mean for me, for us, for CCC, for Smyrna? For me I go to Isaiah 58 which talks about True Fasting, and verse 6 says: "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?"
Oh, that CCC would be a body that fasts and prays to loosen chains, untie cords, and set the oppressed free…
I’m with you on this one Mike. I wish I had more experience in fasting but love the reference to Verse 6.
Mike. You are an example to me on this one. Your tireless effort for the kids at Campbell and our FUEL kids is an example of true fasting. We at CCC are becoming more of a fasting church all the time in this regard. I think of each Faith in Action and all the people fasting from their fix of church. Hope to see lots fasting the Isaiah way Feb.28:)
Another “difficult” subject. The Isaiah 58 reference dealt with religious “works” opposed to a heart for God. Those folks did all kinds of religious things but treated people badly. In the end God will separate those who do “mighty works in your name” religiously (Matthew 7) from those who are so changed by the Holy Spirit, good works are the air they breathe and they hardly remember doing them: “When did we see you…?” (Matthew 25).
Still there is a place for physical fasting – not just food, and Jesus assumes we will fast: “When you fast…” (Matthew 6). The church practiced fasting (Acts 13 and 14). We probably need more teaching on fasting and more practicing of it, at least those of us who are physically able to fast.
Thank you Mike for your work with the teens. It is outstanding.
My first fast was a 3-day fast on a Mission Trip. The miraculous answers to pray during the fast and afterwards changed my life. I have intentions to fast regularly, but seldom do it. Perhaps Joe will inspire a Community Group of “fasting folk” to form. It is always easier for me to follow through when I’m in a group, a class, or a community effort.