In Matthew 6:16-18 NIV Jesus said — 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.

Many denominations recognize today as Ash Wednesday. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent which is the 40 days leading to Easter and commemorates the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert fasting and praying before His ministry began. 

Have you ever fasted or have you ever considered fasting? Fasting is a time of self-denial. In the traditions of Lent, often people choose a food, habit, or attitude to fast over the 40 days. The idea is to allow the lack of items to be a time of reflection to draw you closer to Christ. In the past when I have fasted a food and have been tempted to partake of it, I take that moment to stop and pray. I ask God to help me to be mindful of Christ’s sacrifice for me and allow God to lead and direct my steps. As today’s featured scripture reminds us, when you fast, you should not let your time of denial become an outward time of sadness as to draw attention to yourself. Instead, allow your time of fasting to be a private time of reflection between you and your savior. 

Let’s pray. Dear Father, thank You for the sacrifices made by Your Son Jesus Christ for me. Open my eyes, ears, mind, and heart to receive Your individual message for me about fasting. Prepare me to receive Your will for me and may I respond as You would have me. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

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