Today (03/29/09) Dennis Tuuri, Pastor of RCC, in a sermon related to Lent and Christian suffering, mentioned that “fasting is an anticipation of a change in history.” This is a very helpful perspective to keep in mind as people consider the meaning and use of both Lent and fasting generally. Isaiah 58:3, 5 tells us that fasting is an affliction of our souls. Properly understood, fasting, when practiced, should be seen as part of our praying that God would use us to change the world around us. Specifically, in Isaiah 58:6-7 we are told about fasting that pleases the Lord:

“Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke?
Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your own flesh?”

It is the kind of fasting that moves us to action and service. In our service we see the world transformed around us. The future we hope for is brought into the present. Fasting brings us into conformity to the will of God so that we become part of the establishment of His Kingdom.

Tags: Dennis Tuuri, Fasting, future, Lent, OT - Isaiah, service