February 27
Matthew 6.16-18
16 “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. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 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.
There are so many places where we do things without thinking about the reason for doing it that way. As paper work is filled out in work places we put in all the information asked for, but not knowing what it is all used for. When we give reports of our actions, we don’t write them with the idea of how it will help the organization, or our work. We often give reports as a statement of our necessity. Proving that they need us. It is good to look at why we do things, so that we can do them better – or at least for the right reason.
For many, fasting became something that was done out of an obligation. The purpose of it had been lost. The Pharisees brag about how often they fast (notably Luke 18.9-14; but also see Mark 2.18; Matthew 9.14; Luke 5.33). It became something of bragging rights. Making sure that people knew how righteous and pious they were. Instead of being what fasting is really about. Letting go of something for a moment so that we can focus on prayer. Prayer and fasting most often are paired that way. Time with God.
Not everyone will fast by giving up food for a day, or even a meal. Some have health issues. And there are many ways to give up something for a day, or even an hour, to spend more time today in prayer. Set the book down, turn the TV off, get away from the technology, be alone for a time with God. The point was not to make sure anyone knows, but to be with God. Don’t be asking if anyone else is doing it. Don’t be telling another we are. Let go and spend some time with God in prayer. Focused solely on him.
Song – Sweet Hour of Prayer
Prayer
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God. Let us consider him who endured such opposition from sinful people, so that we will not grow weary and lose heart.
—from Hebrews 12:2-3, NIV