“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matthew 6:16-18
“Fasting is the coercion of nature and the cutting out of everything that delights the palate, the prevention of lust, the uprooting of bad thoughts, deliverance from dreams, purity of prayer, the light of the soul, the guarding of the mind, deliverance from blindness, the door of compunction, humble sighing, glad contrition, a lull in chatter, a means to silence, a guard of obedience, lightening of sleep, health of body, agent of dispassion, remission of sins, the gate of Paradise and its delight.”
John Climacus (579-649) in The Ladder of Divine Ascent, translated by Archimandrite Lazarus Moore (Harper & Brothers, 1959) Step 14.33.
This is classic was written Abba John, Abbot of the monks of Mount Sinai, sent to another Abba John, Abbot of Raithu, at whose request it was written. Think of it as ancient document encouraging spiritual growth.
It is not surprising that fasting is a key discipline for the monks throughout church history as the instructions from Jesus about fasting appear in the heart of His sermon on the mount.
Recently many people have been asking me about fasting. Surprisingly, most of them say that they have never been taught anything from the Scriptures about fasting, though it is mentioned numerous times.
Climacus gives us a profound set of expressions. I suggest you re-read his post and pick one that resonates with you. For some, it may be “the uprooting of bad thoughts” and for others “purity of prayer.”
Many might see it as “deliverance from blindness” as they find clarity from God, while others may report “a guard of obedience” or “agent of dispassion” to get their attachments and affections reordered. What is fasting for you?
I believe fasting is also a “gateway to generosity” as learning to say “no” to our fleshly desires positions us to have margin for living, giving, serving, and loving generously.
However you see fasting, don’t make it a stranger! Patrick Johnson and I have fasted a number of meals recently asking God to pour out His Spirit on Generosity Dallas today. Pray for a great day and a safe trip home. Thanks.