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Means and Goals and Fasting:
We sometimes confuse spiritual means and goals. We focus on the means and we lose sight of the goal. Our ultimate goal is to grow in the knowledge of God. It is probably impossible to know God completely, because God is infinite.
If we fast or give up something for lent, our goal is to focus less on earthly matters, and focus more on spiritual, eternal life. Lent is a time of refocusing our minds. It is almost like going to a spiritual boot camp. It is an opportunity to grow closer to God and hence achieve our goal of knowing Him better. Â So, fasting is really a way to reach our goal. We must not focus on what we give up or how we change our diet, but rather focus on the goal.
Fasting is a time for repentance. The first step to know God is to repent and confess our sins. God is a spirit. We cannot come to know God intellectually. We know God by the spirit. In order for the spirit to guide us to know God, we must be cleansed from our sins. What is the point of fasting if we still hold grudges, curse, and hate other people? The goal will never be achieved.
Dear friends, fasting is a time of spiritual blessings. If we understand how to truly fast, we can reap many spiritual rewards. It is a time for transformation to grow to be Christlike. It is allowing the spirit to overcome the flesh.
If you treat it like any other season, you will miss many spiritual benefits. If you give yourselves excuses, change will not happen. Take advantage of this Holy time because it can make the rest of the year blessed. Â Â May God bless you.
Prayer Before Meals:
That the poor shall eat and be satisfied and they who seek the Lord shall praise him; their hearts shall live to the ages of ages. Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages, Amen. Lord have mercy (3X). Christ our God bless the food and drink of your servants, for you are holy always, now and forever and unto ages of ages. Amen.
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