Fast

F.A.S.T. is the latest catch phrase to test for strokes.

F = face drooping
A = arm weakness
S = speech difficulties
T = time to call 911

To fast also stands for giving up food, especially as a religious act. We are already in the church’s common time of fast. Many people observe Lent by giving up their favourites like chocolate and coffee.

Are either of those a food? (I don’t know why questions like this pop into my mind. They just do.) Anyway I looked up the word food and discovered that food is a substance providing nourishment for people or animals, especially in solid as opposed to liquid form, it is a material that provides living things with the nutrients they need for energy and growth.

So maybe we should be giving up broccoli or kale? But that wouldn’t be a sacrifice would it; at least not for me!

Here is some Biblical advice on fasting.

“When you practice some appetite-denying discipline to better concentrate on God, don’t make a production out of it. It might turn you into a small-time celebrity but it won’t make you a saint. If you ‘go into training’ inwardly, act normal outwardly. Shampoo and comb your hair, brush your teeth, wash your face. God doesn’t require attention-getting devices. He won’t overlook what you are doing; he’ll reward you well. (Matthew 6:16-18, MSG)

Prayer – Father, please show us how to fast. Amen