"Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why do you behave as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: “Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!”? These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence." (Col 2:20-23)
Yesterday was my first day on the Daniel Fast. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the food. I ate organic corn flakes with almond milk and sliced banana for breakfast. I had an apple along in case I got hungry. Michele, my wonderful wife, fixed up baked potatoes with corn salsa with cilantro for me to bring for my lunch. I had almonds and raisins for a snack, and at Applebee's last night I ordered a side dish of steamed vegetables for my supper. The vegetables were broccoli, yellow squash and carrots. No butter, salt or pepper was added. The natural flavors of the vegetables were surprisingly delicious.
But...There's always another thing, isn't there? I was surprised yesterday by a habit. It's not a big deal, but it surprised me. I was in the copy room at the office speaking with one of our staff about Sunday's upcoming worship services when I noticed an assortment of hard candy on the counter. While we were talking and without thinking, I reached over and picked up a root beer candy, unwrapped it, and popped it in my mouth. Only after the sweet taste hit my taste buds did I realize what was doing! It was that automatic. I quickly spit the candy out into a nearby trash can.
It wasn't that I made a conscious decision to break my fast with God. It was casual and automatic. What is really funny is I don't eat that much candy. I have it only once in a while. I eat more at the holidays, but in general candy is not an item on my daily diet. I can go weeks without eating candy and never think about it or miss it. What surprises me is introducing convenient foods and treats into my body can be done so effortlessly and casually, without a thought as to the consequences or the true need. I wasn't hungry. It was there. It looked good. I took one. That easy. That simple.
I think of our friends in Guatemala who live on corn and meager diet often causing malnutrition. Such foods are not lying around for anyone to enjoy like they are here in the USA. I think of little children who do not have even the right foods available to them to grow up tall and strong. Their growth is stunted. I remember a little boy I saw along the road while we were delivering a wood burning stove to a family who lived in the middle of a corn field. He was crying and rubbing his belly. I think he was hungry. What I take for granted, a nutritious healthy diet, I pass on to enjoy burgers, steak and snacks and candy. My dining choices are about convenience and ease. I'm a salt freak so I like corn chips, popcorn and dry roasted peanuts.
This fast isn't about healthy eating, though. I am fasting to create holy habits. This means a collision with the regular habits of eating comfort foods. Paul mentions in the above citation from Colossians chapter 2 that rule following doesn't truly impact self indulgence. Instead it is connection to Jesus, the Head of the body of Christ, which relieves us of self indulgent behavior. (Col 2:19) Paul later says to keep you mind on things above in heaven and not on earth below. (Col 3:1-2)
Who truly comforts? Jesus, of course. His love is what I truly need and desire. Can I reprogram my head and heart to desire Jesus and the love He has for me instead of the easy access I have to snacks, treats and fine foods? I know that in myself I cannot consistently, but with Christ who strengthens me I can do all things. (Php 4:13)
The trick, I think, is not to focus on what I cannot have, but on what God is offering me. Saying "no" to meat, dairy, sweets and coffee is opening me to saying "yes" to God. That feels satisfying.
Lord Jesus, satisfy my heart and all those who seek You with divine love and grace that fills the soul and gives life. Set us free from habits that do not lead to you. Amen
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