Day 7 - March 12
Question:
What, if anything, will you fast from or give up for Lent?
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus assumes his disciples will fast. He says, “When you fast . . .” and then proceeds with two instructions. First, don’t fast for show! If you’re choosing a fast to impress others with your spirituality, all you’ll receive from your Lenten sacrifice is some human brownie points (Matthew 6:16).
Instead, Jesus instructs us to go about our day without drawing attention to our fast (Matthew 6:17-18). Don’t wail and moan to your coworkers that you can’t go on Instagram or watch BritBox until Easter day. Don’t send an email to everyone at the wedding that you won’t be drinking, and it’s going to be a rough day for you. Don’t let your colleagues know that you’re skipping soggy golf with them so you can add your green fees to Easter hampers at your church. Pay attention to God instead of drawing attention to what you’re giving up. God will remind you, through the discomfort of your mind and body, that he wants to connect with you. You will remember, through the discomfort of your mind and body, that you have offered yourself to God in prayer and gratitude.
This doesn’t mean you can’t encourage accountability with one another. In fact, I would encourage you to share what you’re fasting from or giving up with your family or a group of like-minded friends. God will reward your heart’s desire to connect with him and to do his will. Maybe God will be the reward.
Just smile, look well, and quietly persevere.
With that in mind, you have the freedom to pick!
So, what will it be?
Day 8 - March 13
Question:
What do you think or feel might tempt you to break your fast?
