Prepare for the Feast to Come

Below are words penned by a well-known Wesleyan pastor and widely published author, William Arthur Ward (1921-1994). Ward suggested that fasting prepares us for the feast to come. I thank Trinity Lutheran Church Pastor Brian Elster in Lawrence for his sage Lenten message to the members of the congregation I served last year. Here’s what Ward proposed:

• Fast from judging others; feast on the Christ dwelling in them.
• Fast from emphasis on differences; feast on the unity of all life.
• Fast from thought of illness; feast on the healing power of God.
• Fast from words that pollute; feast on the phrases that purify.
• Fast from discontent; feast on gratitude.
• Fast from anger; feast on patience.
• Fast from pessimism; feast on optimism.
• Fast from worry; feast on hope.
• Fast from complaining; feast on appreciation.
• Fast from negatives; feast on affirmatives.
• Fast from bitterness; feast on forgiveness.
• Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others.
• Fast from discouragement; feast on hope.
• Fast from suspicion; feast on truth.
• Fast from thoughts that weaken; feast on promises that inspire.
• Fast from being so busy; feast on quiet silence.
• Fast from talking; feast on listening.
• Fast from trying to be in control; feast on letting go.
• Fast from problems that overwhelm; feast on prayer that sustains.

As we approach the season of Lent, may the Holy Spirit inspire our fasting with the knowledge of the feast yet to come.
Interim Pastor Alan