The F Word

Fasting.
It's bothered me because the Bible says "when you fast" not "if you fast," indicating that it should be a normal thing in my life (its not :( ). As I've processed my thoughts aloud, people have asked what my purpose would be... normally I guess you choose something to focus on or pray about and that becomes your theme. Today, sitting in The Overflow I was reading Matthew and saw the part about the religious leaders accusing Jesus' disciples of never fasting. That led me back to Isaiah 58 which talks about what the true reason for fasting should be. It talks about feeding the hungry, giving shelter, clothing the naked, lifting yokes and breaking bondages. I love it because none of these reasons for fasting cause your action to resolve on yourself. It always brings light and life! Many times when I've heard about fasting the reasons tend to resolve on the person rather than give life outwardly. One might fast to see things clearer or for guidance. I don't think these things are bad, I just love how Isaiah makes the focus of fasting others and not me.