Slow Down and Fast!

Traditionally, many Christians have entered a Fast for the Lenten season- the 40 days prior to Easter.

40 days is a bit much for many.
Lest you think I'm more "spiritual" than I really am, I just couldn't muster up the energy/focus for a 40 day Fast this year.

But our family always does some kind of Fast for Holy Week- the week before Easter.

This year we are going back to an old favorite- a "screen" fast.
No screen time outside of what necessary for work or school.
(FYI, I do consider occasional blog upddates if not work, at least work-related.)

There are many kinds of Fasts, but all should involve giving up something. In a culture where we have so much, it can be very enlightening to go without. We encourage you to choose a Fast that will heighten your need for God this week. Fasting can also have a economic, physical and environmental benefit. Here are a few options:

A Particular Fast- Maybe it’s coffee, all refined sugar, chocolate or meat. It’s something that you regularly consume. And because you are not regularly consuming it, you are regularly reminded to pray and depend on God. This is how most people are introduced to fasting.


A Liquid Fast- You give up all solid food for the week. This is only for experienced adults and requires meal replacement drinks.


A Daily Fast- You give up a meal each day. Perhaps lunch, or just that mid-morning donut.

Other Fasts- Fasting is almost as varied as their are people. Maybe you can do a Technology Fast- no TV, music, computer or cell phone for the week. Maybe it’s a Texting Fast, because you send about 100 texts a day! How about a Facebook Fast, and you give God some of that “face time.” Maybe it’s a News Fast if you are hooked on the paper and watching one of the numerous 24/7 news channels. Don’t worry, your technology, and the world, will be there next week!

The point is to make a sacrifice. It’s not about being anti-food or anti-anything.
It’s about being pro-God.
Fasting is an outward expression of the spiritual reality that we need God more than anything else.

So give it a try this week!