Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the Pioneer and Perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3
“Jesus said that when we are fasting, we should wash our face. He was referring to the cultural practice where fasting was a part of mourning for the dead along with a public display of sorrow and grief. Ripping clothes, putting ashes on one’s head and not washing were a part of that ritual. However, when you’re fasting, it’s important to shower and brush your teeth often. Metabolism starts to convert fat cells to fatty acid, so your fat starts melting and the broken-down fat is expelled through exhaling. Yes, it is interesting that fat does not go out through urine, poop, or sweat; it exits the body through breathing.”
Vladimir Savchuk in A Beginner’s Guide to Fasting: Simple, Practical, Biblical (Pasco, WA: 2024) 33-34.
This post gives new meaning to the spiritual practice of breathing to me.
Think about what’s happening in our bodies. When we fast from food. We use up the weight we carry. We lighten our load for the journey. We travel light in our service with God. It’s a cool word picture.
And it happens when we couple fasting with breathing. I have never thought of this or done this.
I want to add intentional breathing to the times when I fast, reading Scripture, and attune to God. I want to see what happens. I want to discern how it helps me shed the weight and sins which beset me.
I board a plane for Toronto today then flying to Seoul on Saturday. Thanks for your prayers for safe and uneventful travel.