Jesus instructs his disciples in the proper way to fast. We are instructed to beware extrinsic motivation in fasting to impress others, instead of making your fast be a matter between you and God. Although uncommon in our experience, fasting may be one of the most needful spiritual disciplines for our time. Fasting is needful because it reveals how attached we have become to the things of this world.
While fasting from food or drink is the most familiar form (which should be avoided by those for whom such a fast would endanger their health!), there are many other types of fasting that can deepen our Lenten journey, for example, from television, social media, spending, carbon combustion vehicles, or working too much. What do you need to be fasting from in order to clarify your identity in Christ and your dependence upon God above all things?
Fasting is also needful for the sake of the impoverished and hungry people of this world. Today again millions of people across the globe are malnourished. Among children, this leads to developmental delays, stunting of growth, susceptibility to disease, and diminished intellectual capacity. The poor of this world need from us “collective fasting,” in order that the world’s wealth be more justly distributed. While their fast is involuntary, our fasting is by choice. During Lent we take up the fast, pray for a deepened relationship with God in Christ, and learn to advocate for and share generously with those most vulnerable.
Rev. Craig L. Nessan, PhD
Academic Dean
Wartburg Theological Seminary