414. Reset Point

Daniel Fast starts next Sunday. It happens 3 weeks before Easter Sunday, and it involves abstaining from meat, wheat, sugary desserts/coffee and media. It is based on Daniel 10:2-3, “In those days I, Daniel, was mourning for three full weeks. I didn’t eat any rich food, no meat or wine entered my mouth, and I didn’t put any oil on my body until the three weeks were over.”

Even though fasting was never commanded in the Bible, it is obvious that fasting was a common practice among our ancestors of faith. One central aspect of fasting is that it is always done for a “spiritual purpose.” The purpose of Daniel Fast is to gain “intimacy” with God. Side effects will include weight loss, but the real goal is deeper intimacy with God.

Most Christians desire intimacy with God, but many are unaware that our habits, not intentions, lead us to it. Our world is increasingly distracting and sensual. We need a plan, or it is easy to hold on to habits that continue to feed our bodies’ desires as the central act.

I look forward to Daniel Fast because I am beginning to see it as my “reset point.” However, it is difficult to introduce such a reset point ourselves, even if we feel the need. That’s why we require not just personal discipline but corporate discipline. When the personal discipline that has carried us begins to wear out like a tire, it requires a reset point, which requires help from other people and special tools. As I shared in the recent sermon, when we see this fast as a tool, not a to-do, it will become more enjoyable and valuable.

As usual, you can participate in three ways: Full fast (both food and media), Media fast, or Fast only during Passion Week (one week before Easter). Since the purpose is to become more intimate with God, supplementing the fast with Bible reading and prayer is crucial. You can download the Bible reading plan at theseedmc.ca/danielfast, which will help you finish the New Testament in 21 days.