A Different Kind of Fasting

I have found in my spiritual journey that fasting takes courage, especially if one aspect of courage is perseverance. At the same time, this prayer reminds us that feasting on what is good and beautiful and true also requires a kind of courage. Particularly, for us Presbyterians, the critical eye can be more comfortable that the open hand. It takes courage on our part to stretch into joy.

Let us fast from judging others….

and feast on Christ dwelling in each.

Let us fast from seeing differences…

and feast on the spirit in all life.

Let us fast from apparent darkness….

and feast on the reality of Light.

Let us fast from the thoughts of illness….

and feast on the healing power of God.

Let us fast from words that pollute…

and feast on phrases that support and affirm.

Let us fast from discontent…

and feast on gratitude.

Let us fast from complaining…

and feast on appreciation.

Let us fast from hostility…

and feast on non-violence.

Let us fast from bitterness…

and feast on forgiveness.

Let us fast from self-concern…

and feast on compassion for others.

Let us fast from discouragement…

and feast on hope.

Let us fast from lethargy…

and feast on enthusiasm.

Let us fast from idle gossip…

and feast on prayerful silence.

Let us fast from suspiciousness…

and feast on trustful relationships.

Let us fast from shadows of injustice…

and feast on the Son of Justice.

Sister Margaret Kern, SP