By Andrew Williams – May 2, 2022
Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were observing a fast; and [some people] came and asked Jesus, Why are John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fasting, but Your disciples are not doing so? Jesus answered them, Can the wedding guests fast (abstain from food and drink) while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and they will fast in that day.
Mark 2:18-20 AMPC
Good morning fellow disciples.
In this conversation we see disciples of three different rabbis: the disciples of John the Baptist, the disciples of the Pharisees and, Jesus’ disciples. Even though the were all Jewish, there were some differences in their teachings.
Fasting by definition is giving up food to spend time in the presence of God, praying to and fellowshiping with God.
John’s and the pharisees’ disciples had to fast as was required to dedicate themselves to be in God’s presence. However, Jesus’ disciples didn’t have to at this time.
Why?
Because their Master was the Son of God! He was right there with them! They could talk to Him, touch Him, listen to Him and fellowship with Him without fasting.
However, when He was no longer physically with them, they would have to fast.
Do you fast to spend more time with God in order to deepen your fellowship with Him?
Fast, not because of religiosity, but because of a strong desire to dedicate yourself more to God and to have deeper fellowship with Him.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, now that you are no longer here on earth, I will fast. I will seek You with all my heart and dedicate myself to Father God and His Kingdom. Amen