FASTING
Again, Jesus makes an assumption, “...and when you fast.” Jesus expected fasting to be a part of His disciples' routine. Do you think He expects us to fast? To fast routinely? Is this a question you've recently (if ever) asked yourself?
Remember, fasting isn't something to be done as a way to curry favor with the Lord. Fasting isn't going to “earn you points with the Big Man.” Au contraire, fasting is a way for us to change in order to better love, obey, and worship that “Big Man” (I really don't care for this terminology, but lots of people seem okay with saying this than “The Lord...” Guess it makes me wonder, is He really the Lord over all my life? Or, just a comfy presence, kept on a low shelf where I can reach Him when I need? A cosmic Grandfather, whom I approach as a soft touch when I need something?)
Shall I fast from chocolate? Will that make me squirm and cry out to God? Should I fast from television or the computer or from texting or...? What will make me more aware of the time that I waste, not focused on eternity but on my little here-and-now?
Notice the context of this verse: Jesus mentions the lilies of the field, treasures in heaven, and seeking first His kingdom and His righteousness (reading through verse 33). In brief, when we fast, this activity should lift our eyes up to contemplate God's awesome creation, His provision for us, and His priorities. Fasting should jounce us out of the ruts of our comfort zone, and intensify our focus on Jesus!
Prayer: Lord, You know what I need to fast from—show me and help me, I pray. I'm not looking for rote but for real, life-changing discipline in my life. Amen.
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