Lenten Reflection for March 7
Mt 9:14–15
By Betty Sundry, CDP
Then the disciples of John approached him and said, “Why do we and the
Pharisees fast much, but your disciples do not fast?”
Fasting was very much a part of the religious practices in the Jewish
religion in which Jesus was raised. Jesus’ answer to the disciples of John
was in effect that his followers could fast when he was no longer with
them. We are the present day followers of Jesus Christ. As a child, giving
things up was very much a part of what we were taught to practice during
Lent and I still do to this day. A few years ago, I came across an article that
addressed fasting that I thought was a good adult way to look at the
meaning of fasting. [Author and source unknown.]
A Different Approach to Fasting
Lenten fasts have a tendency to be oriented toward things like giving up food or television. But there
are many other creative ways we can welcome Jesus’ healing touch this Lent. Following are some
suggestions you may want to consider:





Fast from anger and hatred. Give your family an extra dose of love each day.
Fast from judging others. Before making any judgments, recall how Jesus overlooks our faults.
Fast from discouragement. Hold on to Jesus’ promise that he has a perfect plan for you. (Jeremiah
29:11)
Fast from complaining. When you find yourself about to complain, close your eyes and recall some
of the little moments of joy Jesus has given you.
Fast from resentment or bitterness. Work on forgiving those who have hurt you.