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Wednesday, March 5, 2025

05Mar

Matthew 4:1-4

Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tested by the devil. He fasted forty days and forty nights, and afterward he was famished. The tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” But he answered, “It is written, ‘One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ ” Matthew 4:1-4 (NRSVUE)

I’m a foodie. Giving up sweets for Lent is something God and I have discussed at length and we’ve decided there are other more meaningful ways for me to draw closer to him. Although giving up a favorite food can be very effective for some, perhaps I should explore a different kind of fast this Lent. One that doesn’t make me cranky. Or…am I missing the point?

In today’s scripture, Jesus fasted 40 days and 40 nights. Even in his famished state, he made the point that it’s not just food that sustains us. It’s also the word of God.

On this Ash Wednesday, as I remember my human mortality and need for repentance, I  will step into Lent by fasting from consuming things that edge God out of my heart. For me, it might mean fasting from control and worry. It might mean fasting from negative commentary. It might mean additional time to reflect on God’s word. My focus will be on making more space in my heart to feel God’s presence, love and grace (while enjoying a few sweets along the way). A different kind of fast awaits. I pray it will leave me hungry for more.

Question for Reflection:

  • How will you fast differently during Lent after reflecting on the meaning of Ash Wednesday?

Prayer:

Loving God, help us consume more of what you have to offer us as your beloved children and less of what the world has to offer us. Amen.

Join our Lenten study on Thursdays at 6:30PM beginning March 6, led by Pastor Day Hefner, based on the book A Different Kind of Fast - feeding our true hungers in Lent by Christine Valters Painter. Purchase your own book to bring along.

Register at https://southwoodlutheran.church/faith-growth/group-finder/group-detail/441513/

RepentanceLent

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Posted by Jo Sheets

Jo loves connecting people to people, but gets even more excited connecting people to God. Joining Southwood was life-changing, so she longs for others to feel the same. Learning alongside others in a group was the best thing she and her husband ever did.

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