Darkened Glass Reflections

Tag: fasting

“When You Fast” (Matthew 6:16-18)

“And when you fast….” Jesus expects His disciples to fast and pray. The question is not, “Should I fast?” Instead, we should ask, “When and how do I fast?”

April 14, 2024
To Obey Is Better than Sacrifice

As we begin Lent, some will place a lot of emphasis on what they are giving up. Let us remember, though, that “To obey is better than sacrifice.”

February 14, 2024
St. Ambrose of Milan on Fasting

A quote about fasting from St. Ambrose of Milan, who helped lead St. Augustine to Christ.

December 7, 2023
The Words of Christ—Matthew 6:16-18

“But as for you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face,so that your fasting will not be noticed by people but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you” (Matthew 6:17-18)

September 28, 2023
Being God’s Instruments of Peace

As we prepare for Lent, let us use this season to ask God to make us instruments of His peace.

February 28, 2022
God’s Righteousness and Justice. IX: Putting on the New Self

Further reflections on being clothed in Christ, especially in light of Lent.

March 24, 2021
Ash Wednesday: Rules or Relationship, Faith or Fellowship

For those who are observing Lent: Do not let it become a season of “Does that mean you’re not allowed….” Let it be a season of renewal in your relationship with Jesus.

February 26, 2020
Lent and Fasting

Some people will go through Lent and get nothing out of it. However, that is not because there is a problem with the season or the traditions associated with it. It is a problem with how that particular individual is approaching the situation. As we give up food or pleasures for Lent, let us take…

March 3, 2019
Man Does Not Live by Bread Alone

Those who fast during Lent reflect on Jesus’ fasting and temptation in the wilderness for 40 days after His baptism in the Jordan River. As Jesus prepared to begin His public ministry, He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil, and ate nothing for 40 days.

February 25, 2018
Ash Wednesday: Fasting to Celebrate Christ

Lent is a season of fasting with a purpose. The ceremony of imposing ashes on a believer’s forehead imitates the ancient Jewish custom of covering oneself in sackcloth and ashes as a sign of mourning or penance (Jonah 3:6; Job 42:6). While using the ashes to mark a cross on the forehead, the priest or…

February 28, 2017