This bothers me…
Posted in: UncategorizedOk, I got a problem with something. I’m trying to not be a toal cynic and a judgemental jerk, but I really need to get this off my chest.
Jesus talked about fasting while he was here on earth. this is what he said, 16 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” (Matt. 6)
Ok, so here’s my deal. The trendy thing to do at churches in America is start the new year off with a fast. Lots of churches are doing these times of prayer and fasting…some do the entire month, some do 21 days, some do 2 weeks…you get the idea.
I think it is a great thing. In fact, theedge has done that too. But here’s what i have a problem with. I am getting tons of twitter and facebook updates from church groups and church leadership networks that are “pimping” their new year fast! I have seen several a day for the past 2 weeks telling everyone about their fast and how “it’s not too late, you can get in on the fast.” Many of these churches are selling their “fasting package” so you can have all the great information for yourself!
What the heck??!!??
How can we pimp fasting like this?! It’s beyond frustrating to me to see infomercials on Christian TV about fasting. It’s frustrating to keep getting twitter and facebook updates talking about everyones fasting. If we are fasting should we be telling everyone?! Should we be profiting off of it?!!
Remember the words of Jesus, ” When you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that IT WILL NOT BE OBVIOUS TO OTHERS THAT YOU ARE FASTING…”
I think it’s fine for leaders to teach about fasting and praying. We need to teach our people about these things, but this new trend is really making it cheap!
So, if you are pimping your fast before people……..You already have your reward!
Me? Am I fasting? That’s between me and God!
peace.out.
Americanized, capitalistic, deal or no deal, “come on down!” the price is right Christianity. Throw in some, “hey look at me” and a new car and watch them climb on board.
That really bothers me too. This is the first time I have heard of anything like this but it doesn’t surprise me! It’s really sad that there are people out there that do this. It should totally be between the person that decides to fast and God!! No one else needs (or deserves) to know!
Great post!!
Iz,
Check this commentary similiar to what you said on Sunday..Zacchaeus demonstrated inward change by outward actions. It is not enough to follow Jesus in your head and heart alone!
This is where it really gets good–
It is not enough to show your faith by changed behavior. Has your faith resulted in action?
Nice job Sunday. This and your sermon hits home. Why can’t you just be a feel good preacher!!!LOL.. This Christian following Jesus’ examples stuff is hard dude!! LLS
JC
Thanks everyone, for the comments.
JC – good stuff bro! Sorry, i will try harder next week to make everyone “comfortable.” haha.
Please, tell us what you really think.
I thought I just did…. haha.
Post a Comment