FEAST DAY ALERT
Fasting is a way of showing self-discipline and of focusing on our relationship with God. Fasting can also be a way of expressing solidarity with those who are less fortunate. Fasting is an important part of Lent, as it allows us to follow the example of Jesus in the desert, and to grow in our compassion for others.
Day 1 – Head
On the first day of our prayer we will be reflecting on The Word of God to help us to understand our theme.
We begin our prayer this morning with the Sign of the Cross. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
Fasting is not just about giving something up—it is about making space for God. Jesus reminds us to fast with the right heart:
Matthew 6:16-18 is a part of Jesus’ teachings known as the Sermon on the Mount, where He talks about the importance of fasting. In these verses, Jesus advises His followers not to make a show of their fasting to gain attention or praise from others. Instead, He encourages them to keep their fasting private and sincere, focusing on their relationship with God rather than seeking approval from people.
Jesus assures us that God will reward our genuine efforts. This teaching emphasizes the value of humility and sincerity in spiritual practices, reminding believers that true devotion is about the heart and not about outward appearances.
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of fasting as a way to grow closer to You.
Help me to approach this practice with a sincere heart, free from the desire for recognition or praise from others.
Teach me to focus on my relationship with You, seeking Your presence in secret.
May my actions reflect true humility and devotion, knowing that You see my efforts and will reward me in Your perfect way.
Strengthen my spirit and guide me in my journey of faith.
Amen.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
Day 2 – Heart
On the second day of the week we focus on our hearts. How can the scripture that we looked at previously impact our lives, and the lives of others? What themes can we draw from the scripture?
We begin our prayer with the Sign of the Cross. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
Fasting is the second of the Three Pillars of Lent.
Fasting helps us recognise the things we take for granted.
Imagine finding free cans of your favourite drink, every morning when you wake up.
At first, it is a joy.
But as time goes on and it keeps happening, it becomes an expectation rather than a gift.
If it suddenly disappears, you might feel frustrated.
This is how we can become attached to worldly things.
Fasting teaches us to refocus, to rely on God rather than on habits that bring temporary pleasure.
Jesus calls us to fast not for show, but as an offering between us and God:
“your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
Fasting helps us reset our priorities and seek God’s presence.
What are some things in your life that you rely on too much?
How might fasting help you trust in God more?
We end our prayer with the Sign of the Cross. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen
Day 3 – Hands
On the final day of the week we try to put into action the things we have learnt and reflected on previously in the week, hence the hands link!
We begin our prayer with the Sign of the Cross. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
Think about something in your daily routine that takes up your time or focus.
It might be social media, a favourite snack, or even unnecessary screen time.
Try setting it aside and using that time to pray, read scripture, or help someone else.
Instead of just giving something up, replace it with something that strengthens your relationship with God.
How can fasting help you grow spiritually this Lent?
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father,
We call on your for strength this season of Lent, to help give up all that is not pleasing to you.
Guide us to get rid of everything that is an obstacle to us receiving your love.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, who gave up his life for us.
Amen.
We end our prayer with the Sign of the Cross. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
As a form we discussed the complexities of fasting. We talked about how it is hard to fast especially as time between meals .We also talked about fasting in other religions such as Islam and Judaism.