¹⁶ “And whenever you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. ¹⁷ But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, ¹⁸ so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

Matthew 6:16-18

I am confronted by these words of Jesus every time I read Matthew chapter 6. “Whenever you fast…” Just as Jesus talks about “whenever your pray” and “whenever you give money to help the poor”, Jesus assumes that we will fast.

Fasting. The spiritual practice of turning away from food for a period of time in order to focus more intently on God through prayer, Bible study, and Christian service.

Some people start by fasting one meal a week (and also use the money that they save for some generous act.) As noted in the scripture, try not to show others that you are fasting. Why not try fasting this year?

Prayer

God, as we find the record in the Bible of Jesus fasting and praying, let me take a little time away from feeding my body to let You feed my soul. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.