Some of my dearest friends have been with me since we met at a playgroup right after Jackson was born. We are very different - some of us have lived abroad, others only in New Jersey or Pennsylvania. We were massage therapists, IT specialists and students before having children. Some of us were married only a year when we had our children, others closer to 20. But one thing we have in commom is a shared desire to live a healthy, whole and integrated life, especially regarding food. When I told one of them I was doing a fast, I got the most unique and uplifting response yet: "Good for you! How's it going?"
It was nice, even if just for a moment, to be greeted with joy and encouragement. I was able to respond that the fast is going well. And it has, even in these few days. Sure, I miss my coffee and a tasty homemade cookie, but the fellowship among the group of fasters, the deeper connection to God and the peace that has descended has made this a most incredible experience.
As we enter the weekend, my our thoughts and meditations turn away from what we're giving up and instead to what we're gaining: a closer relationship with God through Jesus, who knew sacrifice, who knew lack, who knew love and who knew grace.
Loving and lovely God, you welcome us in whatever state we are. We come before you full of anger and worry, full of laughter and joy, full of gratitude and awe, full of the awareness of you so near. Thank you for receiving us into the arms of your love and mercy. May our fast please you, not beause of the luxuries we are foregoing but because of the unfolding awareness of your deep love for us and our utter dependence on you. Journey with us into the night and next day, that we will find our safety and security in your grace. Through the name of Jesus we pray, Amen.
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