(One Prayer Fast Day 4)
There are so many people doing this fast - it’s been incredible to be a small part in something so big. The first time our church fasted like this, I was a little taken back by some of the things people ate or didn’t eat on the fast.
Things that, by my interpretation of the guidelines, had no place in the fast were common place with a couple of people and families. On the other hand, things I felt were 100% okay, others abstained from.
This time is no different. A friend of mine walked into a meeting the other day with an Izze. For Emily and I, we drink these all the time and we’re not doing carbonated beverages during the fast - so an Izze would be off the list (and highly tempting). But for my friend, an Izze is a huge sacrifice from the normal cuisine.
Ultimately I’ve come to realize that fasting is about sacrifice. And everyone is sacrificing right now.
What we’re doing has so little to do with what you eat and what you do not eat - it has everything to do with the focus you hold, the sacrifice you make and the discipline you build.
The community is fasting. But that means different things for different people, because we are all at different places in our walk with God (not to mention our diet!). The important thing is that we build each other up, help one another and don’t get caught up in legalistic judging.
When the community fasts, it is just as much about community as it is about fasting.
Steven,
I found your link off of another blog when I was blog hopping and I love this post. Last night during the build somebody told me what they were eating and I wanted to say that’s not on the fast and thankfully I didn’t. You’re right it is about sacrifice and disipline.
BTW - if you need anymore help please let me know. Bob and I would love help.
Marty
Marty - I find myself wanting to say that too! Grace is something we are all learning for sure. Thanks for your service to our church.