March 21 Day 14
Matthew 6:16-18
“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
REFLECTION
Fasting has no intrinsic spiritual value. When we fast, though, we willingly turn from our selfish desires for comfort and pleasure and open ourselves to self-examination: How much do we take for granted? Are we truly grateful for our blessings? What is the source of our sustenance and survival?
This contemplation of source and gratitude should be between God and ourselves. If we don’t eat for days or weeks, it is not to suffer or mortify the flesh, but to commit to dialogue with our Creator in which hunger helps motivate and focus the exchange. If we make the very human mistake of fasting to influence our relationship with others (seeking sympathy or admiration) the process is short-circuited…becoming an attempt at works-righteousness and ultimately hollow.
PRAYER: Lord, give us the courage to deny our self-seeking pleasures and lead us into the wilderness to fast with you alone. Help us to embrace the way of hunger and self-denial so we may focus more clearly on your gracious provision, our ingratitude, and your promise that the bread of heaven should be our deepest need and desire. AMEN
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