Here we are; the last weekend before Holy Week. We’re approaching the point where our fasting is going to really focus in on the moments that changed the world.

Now that we’re so deep into it, I encourage you to reflect on your fast. How do you feel? Are you used to it? Are you ready for it to be over? Did you give up on it weeks ago? For me, I have a mixture of things going on. Sunset has become dinner time. Sunrise has become whenever I wake up. Calorie free drinks have included V8 and regular Coke a time or two. You know what that tells me? I’m weak…

There a point in 2 Corinthians 12 where Paul is struggling. He’s dealing with what he calls a “thorn in his side” and “a messenger of Satan.” There are a lot of theories to explain what this is: a persecutor, a physical malady, a struggle with lust or some other temptation. We don’t really know, but what we do know is the reason this was allowed in his life. God wanted Paul to see his weakness so that he wouldn’t swell up with pride.

When Paul asked for the thorn to be removed, the Lord simply told him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

This is the power of fasting as well. When we see our weakness, God’s power is complete. His power is always at work, because we are always weak, but when our weaknesses are realized, we can also realize the power of God at work in our lives. So if you’re hungry, or tired, or weak, remember that God’s perfect power is working in you.

In Christ,

PD