Rethinking an Ancient Practice

In my tradition, the importance of the fast has quietly fallen by the wayside. Once, it was central to the life of faith. Sometimes it was used as a means of repentance. But often, a fast was undertaken to prepare oneself to hear God, and to receive strength and courage for service. If you think about it, most of the great spiritual leaders in history have shared this discipline.

Have you ever considered a day of fasting? Instead of fasting from food, how about a day of fasting from television, email, social media, or driving? Or, what about fasting for one day from judging others, or from criticizing yourself too harshly?

In her book Soul Feast, Marjorie Thompson claims that fasting is a discipline “through which God gains access to redirect and heal me in body, mind, and spirit.”

If you decide to undergo a fast, remember to commit that day to prayer. Ask God to be at the center of the day. Ask for strength, for an open heart, and a listening ear.

Let us pray: We want you to be at the heart and center of our lives, O God. We need your grace, your love, and your guidance. Without you, we feel lost. Lord, we acknowledge that there are things that sometimes get in the way of hearing you, knowing you, and serving you. Gifts you have given us to enjoy sometimes become all-consuming. Grant us the courage and strength we need to let go when necessary and to trust you more fully; through Jesus Christ. Amen.