07/03/2023
Lent Devotion : 07-03-2023
Topic : "Fasting"
Bible reference : Matthew 6:16-18
Dear brothers and sisters,
Today, as we continue our Lenten journey, we turn our attention to the practice of fasting. Fasting is one of the spiritual disciplines that helps us to draw closer to God and to strengthen our faith. In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus teaches us about the importance of fasting:
"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."
Jesus is reminding us that fasting is not about showing off or impressing others. It is a private and personal act of devotion to God. It is a way of humbling ourselves before God and seeking His will in our lives. When we fast, we deny ourselves something that we desire in order to focus our attention on God and to seek His guidance and strength.
Let me share with you an illustration to help us understand the value of fasting. Imagine that you are hiking up a steep mountain trail. As you climb higher, the air becomes thinner, and your legs become tired. You begin to feel hungry and thirsty, but you know that you have a long way to go. So you decide to stop and take a break. You sit down on a rock and eat a small snack and drink some water. As you rest and refuel, you feel a renewed sense of strength and energy. You are able to continue the climb with greater focus and determination.
In the same way, fasting is like taking a break on our spiritual journey. We deny ourselves something that we desire, whether it be food, entertainment, or some other pleasure, in order to refocus our attention on God. When we do this, we allow God to renew our strength and give us the energy we need to continue on our journey with greater faith and devotion.
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of fasting. Help us to use this discipline to draw closer to you and to seek your will in our lives. Give us the strength and the courage to deny ourselves and to focus our attention on you. May our fasting be a sign of our love and devotion to you, and may it bring us closer to the person you want us to be. We pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Compiled by
Prabodh Dasari