Let’s look a bit deeper and see what God could have waiting for us to discover through fasting, giving and feasting

Let’s start with fasting.

When we fast, we are essentially praying with our bodies. This may be part of a regular rhythm or it may be done in response to a particular situation. It is also an opportunity to shift our focus from caring for ourselves to caring for others. In any case, we are abstaining from and shedding our attachment to our more immediate needs and desires (such as hunger, comfort, or control) in pursuit of our deeper and eternal ones: the freedom and lasting satisfaction that comes through encountering Christ’s powerful love.

We’re also instructed to give. When you think of giving, what comes to mind? Money, food, clothing, shelter? What about time, gifts and talents, prayer, or hospitality? Our God is the source of all generosity. He freely and joyfully gives, like a loving parent or a kind friend, always ready to help and bless.

There are other things that God freely offers that we may find more difficult to share. Things like forgiveness, mercy, patience, or grace. These can seem almost impossible to give in some situations. Again, though, if God tells us to do something, it means there exists not only the supernatural ability for us to obey Him, but that there is also something to be discovered and gained in the action. There is some part of God and, thereby, ourselves (as his image-bearers) that we will more fully know and find freedom in as we follow Him.

And God tells us to feast. Have you ever thought about the fact that God invented parties? He’s the author of joy and celebration and community, so it seems only natural that He would call us to do something that encompasses all three. In both the Old and New Testament, feasting was a big deal. It marked seasons throughout the year and remembered acts of God’s faithfulness to his people.

Several, in particular, called for significant preparation, setting aside food and drink or money for large meals with loved ones, friends, and those who had nothing and no one. These feasts or festivals often lasted for multiple days, days filled with reminders of God’s nearness and care, shared prayers of thanks, and communal worship. His people were unified, satisfied, and refreshed in this set aside time.

As His people today, we are called into these same rhythms. Our image-bearing minds, bodies, and spirits still need the same things. We are created to reflect, to give, and to rejoice. When we enter into these practices with a desire to meet God in them, we will find His heart for us and others, both now and eternally.

As you accept His invitation during this season of Lent, what need or desire will you abstain from and trust God with as you seek Him?

Consider the ways you have offered or received generosity and its effect on you. How and what might God lead you to give?

And what will you celebrate? Who will you invite to share in your celebration? What joy is waiting to fill your life as you remember God’s presence and faithfulness?

Father God, I pray that in this season, you would show me new facets of yourself. Where there is fear or pain, would you bring your love and truth. Where I hide guilt and doubt, would you reveal freedom and faith. Where I struggle to see the good, would you open my eyes to joy and wonder. Over all of my life, would I find the beauty of your empowering grace that invites me into all that you have created me for. Amen.