Fasting

An important part of 40 Days for Life is fasting.  Fasting is most definitely scriptural, and, in fact, Jesus makes it pretty clear that He doesn't only suggest that we fast, He EXPECTS us to fast.  In Matthew 6:16, Jesus says, "when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites...when you fast, annoint your head and wash your face so that you may not appear to be fasting, except to your Father."

Notice He says when, not if!  :)

While we are not supposed to flaunt that we are fasting, or complain about it to our friends or family, I think it can be okay to let other Christians know that you are fasting - for several reasons.

1) It brings accountability to your actions.

2) It gives you the opportunity to witness to others about WHY you are fasting.

(for example...at work this week, one of my coworkers offered me some chocolate.  I told her I had given up sweets for awhile and she of course asked why, so it gave me a great opening to a conversation about 40 Days for Life)

3) As Christians we are called to be in community with our other Christian brothers and sisters.  Knowing that you have an entire parish or congregation all fasting together for the same cause encourages each individual to remain steadfast in their own personal sacrifice.

In the menu bar at the top there is a link to a poll.  I urge you to go and have your fast counted. (don't worry - it is completely anonymous!)  I think it will be a great visual to see all the fasts that are being offered for the cause of LIFE!  You can view the poll results at any time by clicking on the link at the bottom of the poll that says "view results"  :)