1. Fasting is a physical expression of repentance (Joel 2:12; Jonah 3:5-8).

2. Fasting must be done with the right motives (Matt. 6:16-18).

3. Fasting must be accompanied by care and concern for others (Isa. 58:6-7).

Conclusion

When we fast, we have to fight against our own rational and naturalistic impulses. We might be tempted to think, What good can come to the poor simply from me missing a meal? or, How does skipping food enable me to experience God’s presence any more readily?

Naturally or rationally, these may be good questions, but spiritually, they aren’t. When we fast, we step into God’s economy, where things aren’t simply as they appear. Fasting in solidarity and compassion for the poor is a way of participating in God’s compassion and God’s ministry for the poor. Fasting in response to our grief over sin is a way of sharing in God’s grief over our sin. Fasting in secret opens up a space where God’s presence can be experienced in a unique kind of intimacy. 

Ultimately, fasting allows us to step into God’s kingdom and God’s story, to experience in our bodies a different way of life that invites us to pray, to consider others, and to meet God in the earthly day-to-day of our lives.

Hospitality

In this session, we look at the spiritual discipline of showing hospitality. Showing grace to others is rooted in God’s gracious identity and His saving work on our behalf. When we show hospitality to believers and unbelievers, we paint a picture of the gospel and represent Christ faithfully as we share His gospel.

Next week