Liturgical Nerds

For most of the preceding centuries, fasting was an important part of Christian life and faith. Recognizing that ultimate goodness is found in God, not in satisfying bodily desires — and that consumption is not a significant mode of spiritual life in God. It was recognized as an important component of

Fasting was one of the handful of lifegiving spiritual practices named “means of grace” by John Wesley, and has recently regained some visibility in many parts of the Body of Christ. Advent’s original intention, as a time of preparation for the coming of Christ again, was a time of penitence and repentance.

I’m not suggesting we should break out self-flagellation and bodily abuse…but it would be beneficial to our spiritual lives and our common witness if we could somehow refrain from the decadence and consumption that marks too much of our preparations for Christmas Day. So let’s exercise some self-restraint (Fridays were universally recognized as a day of fasting) and refuse to shop–if not today, some day during Advent. Don’t go to the store. Don’t buy. Or spend a meal time in prayer, instead of feasting. Use the money to feed someone who otherwise wouldn’t eat. And understand that Christmas is not about receiving, but giving!