For years I have fasted. It began in college for me and has continued to the present time. Honestly, for most of the years I fasted during Lent and at other times throughout the year, nobody in my household even noticed. Ronni picked up fasting during Lent along the way at some point and has given up usually some form of food during that time. This year she is giving up complaining...wow...I am one lucky momma! Last year everyone in my family fasted during the Lenten season. Though I never really encouraged them to do so, the discipline of fasting has become part of our lives.
We were driving home from the ballgame this week and the middle one explains that he has decided what his fast will be this year. And then he asks...what does Lent mean anyway? Jeff says he has often wondered that himself. And so I explain the meaning of Lent, the discipline of fasting, and I think that this teaching may be a little late since we have been practicing a Lenten fast for several years now.
I have always believed fasting was such a personal thing...never really seeing it as a “family thing”. But here we are...seeking God on what to give up...discussing with each other what we think. Encouraging each other when the going gets rough and the temptations are many. Confessing the times we fail and offering grace when we just can’t muscle through.
Your family might want to give it a try, though I strongly urge you not to force the issue. Our kids see what we do, the blessings God gives, and they might want to give it a try themselves. For me the key to a family fasting together is the conversations that go along with the journey. At our house it is never about whether or not we have succeeded in following the rules we have set for the fast, it is about the journey towards Jesus. It is about growing, maturing, believing. A celebration of resurrection and redemption.
When does Lent begin?
....this Wednesday.
When does it end?
...Easter Eve (or for us Easter morning as we begin the celebration with breakfast.)
How long is it?
...40 days of fasting...Sundays are celebrated as "little Easter's"...no fasting on these days.
What do people give up?
...chocolate, fried foods, cheese...complaining, television, texting (just ask God he will give you an idea!)
Join us for our Ash Wednesday service at 6:00. A great way to begin the preparation for Easter.
