FastingSample

Let me say immediately that no one is under any pressure to fast. Indeed, those dependent on medication, or anorexic, or for many other reasons should not fast! No one is under any pressure to do this.

But fasting in the Spirit is both thrilling and powerful, and we need disciples who are practiced in using this kingdom tool for occasions when it is needed.

There are many holy habits – spiritual practices that we disciples have the freedom to adopt and build into our lives because they help train us to be involved in the kingdom of heaven. (Think of Holy Habits as being like working out at the gym in order to be fit for the game next Saturday, or practicing to drive a car so that you become a competent driver with a license to drive anywhere, or setting about learning how to make really good coffee so you can be a ‘barista’ and work in a coffee shop.)

The life in the kingdom is ALWAYS a combination of grace and effort; of his help and our response, of the divine gift and the human response to that gift of grace.

It is never effort on its own. Effort on its own is called ‘Pelagianism’, after the teacher; Pelagious. But Pelagious was wrong. Pelagianism is heresy! We cannot do all that God wants without God helping us to do what he wants.

Jesus’ great promise is found in today's reading, Mathew 11:29-30.

By practicing Holy Habits, kingdom disciples can learn how to live the kingdom life with great effectiveness.