A Prayer about a Very Slow Fast
Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not labor for the food that perishes, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on him God the Father has set his seal.” (John 6:26– 27)
Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” (John 6:35 NIV)
Dear Jesus, I’m barely twenty four hours into Lent and already I realize how weak I am, how powerful my appetites are, and how much I take the gospel for granted. This may be the slowest fast I’ve ever tried. At this rate, this might be the longest forty days of my life.
Who would’ve thought that one little piece of corn bread staring up at me from a Styrofoam dinner box could present such a challenge to my “no bread during Lent” fast? I choose to deny myself one little thing— with a world of other culinary options open to me— yet my mouth waters, my taste buds engage, and I want to chow down.
Oh, that my hunger for you would be as compelling as my hunger for every other kind of bread. No bread endures to eternal life except the bread that you give. In- deed, all breads except the Bread of Life will ultimately spoil.
During this season of Lent, renew our craving for the manna of the gospel. Intensify our longings for the day when we will feast together at the wedding feast of the Lamb. Ignite our hearts to sing with vigor, “Bread of heaven, feed me till I want no more!” To come to you today is to never hunger for eternity.
Help me and my friends as we seek you in fresh ways over these next six weeks. Jesus, may the gospel come alive in profound and transforming ways. Satisfy our appetites as no other bread can. Because the Father has placed his seal of approval on you, we find our approval in you. We pray with hope, in your satisfying and sufficient name.
Amen.