And when you fast…
Most of us might not get past those first four words of this passage. It’s quite possible they presume something that isn’t happening. Why isn’t fasting a more prevalent practice in today’s Church? (Perhaps it is because everyone is following the latter admonishments in the passage - fasting…in that secret place.)
Seems unlikely though.
More often than not, fasting is practiced more by those who are closer to situations of desperation. Is this a fair characterization? If it is, we’ve got a whole bunch of other questions to ask ourselves about life.
All that said, fasting is a spiritual discipline, practiced rightly, that can really open our eyes, heart, and body to the work of the kingdom in our lives. The beatitudes just told us so.
Matthew 6:16-18
“And when you fast, don’t put on a sad face like the hypocrites. They distort their faces so people will know they are fasting. I assure you that they have their reward. When you fast, brush your hair and wash your face. Then you won’t look like you are fasting to people, but only to your Father who is present in that secret place. Your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
Prayer
God,
Sometimes I wonder about my privileged and resourced life. I think the Psalmist would say I’m blessed. But the Ecclesiast would say it’s all vanity. Today I’m feeling a bit more like the Ecclesiast…though I want to be quick to say, deep down, I don’t want much to change.
I know I should fast more, Lord. But doing so seems weird when I know I could pull out at any time. Maybe that’s why I should do it more, to remind myself that my reliance should be on you, not on my own strength or comfort.
I remember the young woman, who, having grown up in financial privilege, felt the need to live on the streets for a while. Inspiring. And yet, the fact that she could return to the safety and comfort of home at any moment seems defeating of the premise. I know the likes of Saint Francis and Saint Martin gave up their family’s wealth for a life of service and simplicity. Their stories do indeed move me, and I’m grateful for the blessings I have—yet I long to hold them loosely, so they do not hold me back from knowing you more deeply and serving you more faithfully.
(Did Francis & Martin have kids?)
I do want to know you more, deeper still. I want my life to depend on what matters, not simply what jolts my dopamine, be it a peanut-butter-and-fluff sandwich or disc golfing. So help me, God: Challenge me in my comfort as it pertains to lulling me to a sleepy faith. Guide me, Lord, in using my resources wisely and in living a life that reflects Your love and grace.
By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.