Greetings Prayer Warriors,
In the Old
Testament, prized animals were sacrificed as an offering of atonement for sin. Now
during Lent, we may choose to self-sacrifice fasting from certain foods, social
media, or activities. The intent of both of these actions is good, but not very
efficacious if the one making the sacrifice didn’t/doesn’t choose to amend
their life.
Obedience is better than
sacrifice 1 Samuel 15:21
Thus, the Lord
calls us to obedience as well. That is a hard word as most of us are strong-willed,
and the last thing we want to do is to let go of the steering wheel of our
life. It requires us to let go of our self-will and surrender to the will of
God. That may seem terrifying to some, but if you are not ready to surrender, a
good place to start is by asking the Holy Spirit to at least give you the desire to submit.
Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
We are also called
to fast, a form of spiritual purification. Consider though how Jesus defines
it.
Is this not, rather, the fast
that I choose: releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke; Setting
free the oppressed, breaking off every yoke? Is it not sharing your bread with
the hungry, bringing the afflicted and the homeless into your house; Clothing
the naked when you see them, and not turning your back on your own flesh? Isaiah 58:6-7
Fasting in this
manner should begin in our homes. Perhaps
a family member might feel oppressed or imprisoned by their life choices? Perhaps
another is hungering to fill the void in their life and doesn’t realize they
have a God-sized hole in their heart? Maybe
another is experiencing a hard time financially and would welcome a home-cooked
meal or some debt relief? When we build up our family, we empower them to go
into the world and serve others, lifted by our prayers and guided by with the
Holy Spirit.
What is the Holy
Spirit saying to you? Spend some quiet
time in prayer for your family and allow the Spirit to show you how to minister
to your family. The mission begins at home and will one day radiate out to the
rest of the world.
Peace, Joy, and
Love,
Janet
Pray! Fast! Give
alms! Each will help you peacefully become obedient. Pass it on!
