Matthew 6:16-18 Fasting

When I became a Christian, fasting was a big mystery to me. I did not understand the connection between going hungry and my relationship with God. At times, I thought that fasting was only for fanatics. Possibly, fasting was to get God to do something for me. All in all, my view of fasting was not grounded in Scripture and it was optional at best.

Fasting is expected of Christians! It is a spiritual discipline that is becoming rare these days. What is the connection with my spiritual life? Fasting is to hunger for God's presence. Food sustains life and many have made their life all about food. But God challenges us to set aside what sustains our physical life to devote ourselves to the Life-Giver, our bread of life. 

Fasting is an act of mourning. It is our way of crying out for God's presence; to yearn for him. It is to desire that God's kingdom be established upon earth and wipe out all injustice and suffering. Fasting is to seek God's presence. It is to say to God: "I need you more than food!" Fasting is a discipline that teaches our mortal bodies to delay gratification and be self-controlled.

I want more of you, Lord. Help me make the spiritual discipline of fasting an integral part of my Christian life. May I learn to set aside physical food more often to feast in your presence. May I seek your presence with devotion yearning for you.