Why Jesus is important to me...

Fasting is important to me because it puts Jesus first in my heart. He is my vision. It is simply a time for just Jesus and me.

I encourage people in their fasting by sharing the following verses;

"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, 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 men 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." Matthew 6:16

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the almighty" Psalm 91:1

Digging Deeper:

1. 1. What makes Fasting personal to you? How do you connect with Jesus during your fast?

2. Are you at peace during your fast? If not, why not? What do you need to remove in your life to focus on that "peace that transcends all understanding"?

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father,

You are so beautiful and we adore you. Please help us to fast by putting you first in our hearts. We want to show you that we love you by sacrificing during this time. Instead of the things that our human bodies long for, we take these coming days to spend time in your holy scriptures and talking with you. May our fasting be a time between us to draw closer to one another. Lord, help us to love well in the absence of these earthly desires. We will sing of your love and justice! Every day is a priceless gift from you!

In Jesus Precious Name. Amen

-Written by Mission Team Member, Mary Green.