Subject: LENT – FRIDAY – DAY 3

Rev Michael Anokye: 16TH FEBRUARY 2024

“HOW IS IT THAT WE AND THE PHARISEES FAST OFTEN, BUT YOUR DISCIPLES DO NOT FAST?”

PRAY:

Dear God, please grant me the ability to share my blessings with those in need. When I encounter someone hungry, I will offer them some of my bread. When I encounter people experiencing poverty, I will share my money with them. Furthermore, I will give them my clothes when I find someone unclothed.

Reading: Matthew 9:14-15 “Then John’s disciples came and asked him, “How is it that we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?” Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast.”
The above Scripture reference may be clicked on to allow you to read the whole context of the verse.

Reflection:

During Lent, we fast within our means. For most people, this means not eating meat or giving up something to focus on God. However, you can go beyond this if you wish to accelerate your spiritual development.

The purpose of Lent is to let go of anything that has power over us. When deciding what to give up, we should choose something difficult to sacrifice rather than something simple. For some people, this could be food, while for others, it might be social media or another form of addiction.

It is important that the sacrifices we make come at a personal cost. Only by letting go of the things that control us can we truly be free to serve God. If we are ruled by money, we should give it up. If it is food, we should give it up. Whatever daily habit or activity that drives us but does not serve God, we must sacrifice it. When urged to indulge in sinful pleasures, we should turn those feelings into prayers and remember Jesus’ sacrifice on the Cross.

LET US PRAY:

Dear God, please help me stay focused on you during my Lenten fast and resist temptation in the name of Jesus. 

ACTION:

What will you give up for Lent? 

Will it help you hear the Lord’s voice?

With God’s help we will.