The Wired Word for 03232025 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 03/23/2025 ![rw-book-cover](https://readwise-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/static/images/article3.5c705a01b476.png) ## Metadata - Author: [[The Wired Word]] - Full Title: The Wired Word for 03/23/2025 - Category: #articles - Document Note: --- tags: - #lent - #ramadan - #spiritual-disciplines - #fasting - #interfaith-dialogue Author: The Wired Word Team Source: The Wired Word Reference: [The Wired Word - March 23, 2025] date created: 2025-03-23 09:00 --- # Title: The Fasting Seasons of Lent and Ramadan Overlap in 2025 ## Table of Contents - [📝 Summary](#📝-summary) - [📖 Main Content](#📖-main-content) - [🗒️ Notes](#🗒️-notes) - [📖 References](#📖-references) - [🗣️ Paraphrase](#🗣️-paraphrase) - [📰 Newsletter](#📰-newsletter) - [✅ Action Items](#✅-action-items) - [🧪 Hypotheses](#🧪-hypotheses) - [📊 Methodology](#📊-methodology) - [❓ Questions](#❓-questions) - [🔮 Future Research](#🔮-future-research) - [💡 Implications](#💡-implications) - [🧠 Learning Styles Assessment](#🧠-learning-styles-assessment) - [📊 Accessibility Assessment](#📊-accessibility-assessment) - [🌍 DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) Assessment](#🌍-deib-diversity-equity-inclusion-and-belonging-assessment) - [✅ Logical validity](#✅-logical-validity) - [🔍 DARVO Analysis Prompt](#🔍-darvo-analysis-prompt) - [🔍 SEO Evaluation](#🔍-seo-evaluation) - [🎯 Conclusion](#🎯-conclusion) --- ## 📝 Summary: This week’s Wired Word explores the overlap of Lent and Ramadan in 2025, inviting reflection on fasting as a shared spiritual discipline between Christianity and Islam. The article examines how both traditions use fasting to draw nearer to God, cultivate self-discipline, and foster empathy. It highlights shared goals such as humility, compassion, and community, while calling readers to interfaith respect and deeper spiritual practices. --- ## 📖 Main Content: The article begins by describing Lent's origin and its purpose in Christian tradition: reflection, repentance, and renewal. In 2025, Lent overlaps with Ramadan, creating a unique moment for interfaith empathy. The article explores Biblical references to fasting, including Moses on Mount Sinai, Jesus’ 40-day wilderness fast, and early Church practices in Acts. It also compares Islamic fasting practices, emphasizing prayer, spiritual cleansing, and community solidarity. ### 🗒️ Notes - **Lent Overview** - Starts on Ash Wednesday, lasts 40 days (excluding Sundays). - Emphasizes prayer, fasting, and giving to the poor. - Seen as the "springtime of the soul." - **Ramadan Overview** - Fasting from sunrise to sunset. - Spiritual focus: purification, increased faith, empathy, community. - Begins late February/early March, ends March 30 in 2025. - **Shared Values** - Self-discipline - Compassion and empathy - Spiritual reflection - Charity - **Scriptural Anchors** - **Exodus 34:27-28**: Moses fasts for 40 days while receiving commandments. - **Isaiah 58**: True fasting leads to justice and mercy. - **Luke 4:3-4**: Jesus resists temptation during his 40-day fast. - **Acts 13:1-3**: Early Christians fasted in preparation for mission work. - **Quotes** - Vatican: Both traditions see fasting as a way to draw closer to God and purify the heart. - Bill Bright (Cru): Fasting humbles and renews the believer. - Bill Tammeus: Interfaith dinners (iftars) create opportunity for peacebuilding. --- ## 📖 References: - [Pensacola News Journal: Lent 2025 Overview](https://www.pnj.com/) - [Cru: What Is Biblical Fasting](https://www.cru.org/) - [Catholic News Agency](https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/) --- ## 🗣️ Paraphrase: **Original**: > "By abstaining from food and drink, Muslims learn to control their desires and turn to what is essential..." **Paraphrase**: Fasting teaches Muslims to focus on what truly matters by setting aside physical cravings. --- **Original**: > “Christians have an opportunity to move closer to God during the season of Lent, by fasting or practicing other spiritual disciplines...” **Paraphrase**: Lent offers Christians a chance to strengthen their bond with God through sacrifice, prayer, and compassion for others. --- ## 📰 Newsletter: **Fasting, Friendship & Faith: Lent Meets Ramadan** This week’s issue reflects on the 2025 overlap of Lent and Ramadan—two sacred fasting seasons from Christian and Islamic traditions. From abstaining chocolate to skipping meals at sundown, believers across faiths are embracing sacrifice and soul-searching. Shared values like humility, compassion, and justice offer bridges—not barriers—between neighbors. Check out our highlighted scriptural references (Exodus 34, Isaiah 58, Luke 4) and read how fasting shaped Moses, Jesus, and the early church. 👉 Dive into the full article: [The Wired Word](https://www.thewiredword.com) 👉 Let us know: What are *you* giving up or taking on for Lent? --- ## ✅ Action Items: - **For Developer Advocacy**: Use this topic to draw interfaith parallels when designing inclusive contributor onboarding experiences. - **For Open Source Education**: Highlight how cross-cultural discipline (fasting) parallels time-bound contribution sprints. - **OSPO Leadership Goal**: Emphasize that inclusivity and shared values across worldviews build more resilient communities. - **WordPress Ecosystem Alignment**: Consider hosting a Lenten or Ramadan-themed contributor reflection challenge, linking spiritual discipline to open source dedication. --- ## 🧪 Hypotheses: - Interfaith fasting observances increase empathy between faith communities. - Periodic spiritual disciplines foster deeper engagement in community efforts, including open source. ### 📊 Methodology: - Surveys across churches/mosques on perceived spiritual growth. - Comparative ethnographic interviews across Lent and Ramadan observers. - Mixed-method content analysis of sermons and community statements. ### ❓ Questions: 1. How do Lent and Ramadan shape empathy across faiths? 2. What internal transformations does fasting catalyze? 3. Could tech communities adopt seasonal reflection as a model? ### 🔮 Future Research: - Comparative study of religious fasting and secular minimalism movements. - Exploring tech burnout recovery through spiritual disciplines. - Ramadan & Lent integration in diverse workplace accommodations. ### 💡 Implications: - Strengthened interfaith dialogue. - Broader recognition of spiritual diversity in public spaces and digital communities. - Healthier boundaries between work and personal transformation. --- ## 🧠 Learning Styles Assessment: | Style | Present | Suggestions for Improvement | |------------------|---------|-----------------------------| | **Visual** | ❌ | Add infographics comparing Lent/Ramadan | | **Aural** | ❌ | Provide podcast/audio version | | **Verbal** | ✅ | Strong use of scripture and storytelling | | **Kinesthetic** | ❌ | Add journaling prompts or hands-on challenges | | **Logical** | ✅ | Scriptural structure supports logic | | **Social** | ✅ | Emphasis on shared meals, interfaith discussion | | **Solitary** | ✅ | Encourages personal reflection | | **Naturalistic** | ❌ | Could include metaphor of seasonal change | --- ## 📊 Accessibility Assessment: | Feature | Present | Suggestion | |---------------------|---------|------------| | Screen Readers | ⚠️ | Needs semantic HTML and alt-text | | Keyboard Navigation | ⚠️ | Unclear—assume minimal support | | Contrast/Readability| ✅ | Clear structure, large headings | | Text Resizing | ✅ | Responsive text support recommended | --- ## 🌍 DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) Assessment: - **Cultural Relevance**: ✅ Strong interfaith framing - **Inclusive Language**: ✅ Neutral and respectful - **Neurodiversity Support**: ⚠️ Long paragraphs may overwhelm; consider bullet points - **Representation**: ✅ Emphasizes both Christian and Muslim traditions - **Psychological Safety**: ✅ Encouraging tone; honors both traditions --- ## ✅ Logical validity: **Strengths:** - **Causal Reasoning**: Establishes fasting leads to humility, empathy, spiritual growth. - **Balanced Perspective**: Avoids framing one religion as superior. - **Appeal to Evidence**: Cites both Biblical and Quranic sources. - **Valid Syllogism**: Shared actions → Shared values → Shar - Summary: At this time of year, many Christians are choosing to give up something for Lent, at the same time that Muslim neighbors are fasting for Ramadan. Dear Class Members, At this time of year, many Christians are choosing to give up something for Lent, at the same time that Muslim neighbors are fasting for Ramadan. Because so many people are making sacrifices these days, this installment of *The Wired Word* will focus on the value of fasting in the Christian life. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **The Fasting Seasons of Lent and Ramadan Overlap in 2025*****The Wired Word*** **for the Week of March 23, 2025** **In the News** During the season of Lent, which began on Ash Wednesday and lasts through Holy Week, many Christians are choosing to give up something. They may stop eating chocolate, abstain from drinking alcohol or quit checking Facebook. They make these sacrifices as a way to deepen their faith and focus on Christ's sacrifice on the cross. Traditionally, the season has focused on prayer, fasting and giving to the poor. The word "Lent" comes from the Old English word "lencten," meaning "spring season" or "lengthening (of daylight hours)." For many Christians, it is considered to be the "springtime of the soul," a time for spiritual growth. Lent lasts for 40 days because Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness, which coincided with his temptation by the devil. The season appears to last longer than 40 days because the six Sundays in the season are not counted in the total. This year, Lent overlaps with the Islamic observance of Ramadan, a month of fasting spent in prayer, contemplation, giving to the needy and asking for forgiveness for sins. Ramadan began on the last day of February (or first day of March), and runs through Sunday, March 30. Although not all Christians observe Lent, it is a meaningful season for millions of Catholics and members of many other Christian denominations around the world. "During Lent, we are asked to devote ourselves to seeking the Lord in prayer and reading Scripture, service by giving alms, and to practice self-control through fasting," said the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) to the *Pensacola News Journal.* For some, the act of fasting is simply giving up a favorite indulgence for Lent. But for others, fasting includes greater sacrifices. So, what is the significance of fasting? For many Christians, fasting is a sacrifice designed to help them to move closer to God. It reminds them of the truth of Deuteronomy 8:3: "One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD." Speaking to the devil in the wilderness, Jesus quoted this verse when he was tempted to end his own fast by turning a stone into a loaf of bread (Luke 4:4). Although not all evangelical Christians observe Lent, many practice fasting. Bill Bright, the co-founder of the campus-ministry organization Cru, made a practice of fasting and praying. He believed it played a vital role in what God did through him and through Cru as a ministry. He said, "Fasting is a biblical way to truly humble yourself in the sight of God," and he was convinced that it strengthened a person's confidence and faith in God, while also refreshing a person mentally, spiritually and physically. For Muslims during Ramadan, fasting is done by abstaining from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. Fasting is understood to be a way to cleanse the soul, increase faith and foster a stronger connection with God. It is also an act of self-discipline, teaching patience, self-control and empathy for those who may not have enough to eat. Finally, fasting fosters a sense of community and unity among Muslims around the world, as they fast and worship together. During Lent, Christians pursue many of the same goals, as they take action to draw closer to God, practice self-discipline and improve their practice of the faith. They use the season to focus on worship, prayer and fasting -- although their fasting does not need to run from sunrise to sunset every day. Instead, they often give up something important to them, and they take actions to show compassion for people who are less fortunate than themselves. In a recent message, the Vatican noted similarities between the Muslim observance of Ramadan and the Christian observance of Lent. "By abstaining from food and drink, Muslims learn to control their desires and turn to what is essential. This time of spiritual discipline is an invitation to cultivate piety, the virtue that brings one closer to God and opens the heart to others," it said. "In the Christian tradition, the holy season of Lent invites us to follow a similar path: Through fasting, prayer, and almsgiving we seek to purify our hearts and refocus on the One who guides and directs our lives," the Vatican's message went on. "These spiritual practices, though expressed differently, remind us that faith is not merely about outward expressions but a path of inner conversion." Christians have an opportunity to move closer to God during the season of Lent, by fasting or practicing other spiritual disciplines. Along with fellow Christians, they can use this time of year to renew faith, seek forgiveness, practice gratitude, show humility and give to people in need. And they can look for opportunities to reach out in friendship to Muslim neighbors, who are walking a similar path. Many Christian churches and denominations add a Lenten theme to their observances, in order to provide focus and guidance to individuals and congregations. The Lent 2025 calendar from the USCCB invites people to "Reflect. Repent. Restore." This year's theme in the Church of England is "Living Hope," and themes in other churches include "Bread of Life," "Take Heart," "Into the Deep" and more. All invite people to grow in faith throughout this "springtime of the soul." More on this story can be found at these links: [When Is Lent 2025? When Is Ash Wednesday? What Happens During the Christian Event?](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMShz3SoGdbNVsDVgdAPiBXxnWvarub4N9fifu94AqXdzoKbXC83x5KklbAiRXVO8URaIH-2B3j-2B0ZY9m4N7nePmz-2BeUs3qREDavpIekYJiNQXfLkkYRKwaJG69Nm-2B08P9aCTc-2BSyI0fDtoldIlbpS-2FdA-3DCzdg_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiGhq7iwzSVyoG5J28LG-2F2o-2BeA6XfPp7lyP-2FnZdM8Qnv9X5S3hozG2fkorvPuRzO1BVxY04mh8KjZG48NKRUDD9XX1CaExDDj8HCWibY07hOszJPypGxLbKWkBj-2FdyZoKSVabQpoc4VywvY-2BKnEfBKFqciaaOjrPsnFZA-2FV9GhHuGe7L2lBWFoa-2BxyXx5h6Snnrno8hfXKN-2FFMQGQy2nE6M8-3D) [*Pensacola News Journal*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMShz3SoGdbNVsDVgdAPiBXxnWvarub4N9fifu94AqXdzoKbXC83x5KklbAiRXVO8URaIH-2B3j-2B0ZY9m4N7nePmz-2BeUs3qREDavpIekYJiNQXfLkkYRKwaJG69Nm-2B08P9aCTc-2BSyI0fDtoldIlbpS-2FdA-3Dy5oF_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiHDNaHxlYRFxHrTcIcbvZ2iSKeCgfiN3KwBN2Kmewq6BWCgmquYxrPyb7OVCcVQLZNVBsnu3HI1IDkL8wjn89aippwJGmkRUEQz1W0qMR-2BHoWVK-2BMe23KKd-2Fud1FQD44OUNezyfDjkd07dX1aWhKo122WcEg5htSxwFjc5BFpwhnddpcYoTh6Yeb3DVTd91Lrh1rLdFIf8UmpNehl-2B7wNCw-3D)[What Is Biblical Fasting and Does It Work?](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBhdewrnUW-2BJBW-2FRJ-2B0698-2FzuvW4JFn-2FdOctEocun-2F4KI4Xt_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiPzztsrSsdBhthSTuZxlpbjvePCs-2FAjv4MQuRvAXm3-2FBR07xVLKOI8pGuv0VF1IBmsOOq4Urm26Qw1g1U0A9Dhy2rtViaTzc-2FqGIYY-2B8wUlTtzr3kJ3Ce4DzhTmFpOPWb0IozHrjk-2FErkG1-2BlbVESNnVR1scnixp4X-2FP414a6C5usXpMpvCAIiYF1YImKzJgtHXSrfz59Gs-2FmrHk7fAy61U-3D) [*Cru*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBhdewrnUW-2BJBW-2FRJ-2B0698-2FzuvW4JFn-2FdOctEocun-2F4KVwb-_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiIL2xJGD6wSgtj5INVWKGKBq2f73p4PSBqBv5DlXzuBu4XJpkGfS2zbsSu7QhXuHL9tEYz3SKC2K-2BJlswXZtE90gfuCS8vG8sN-2FqfVaJyfObwXe6YLOb0fp738GsXPXsVqwYSAgXZtlk-2BQChGCI61eVcfNxmvWRxX2rVz5rqzrZVw56Hx4ytv60T5di89p0rc-2BOWfBBTZYkIefuk9kmuOAM-3D) [Vatican Expresses Solidarity With Muslims During Ramadan Fast.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJ2Fr1c5BwvNAHkNurTrY7pRPbVW-2FfjByerV3tCAr3KKgR-2BtsfpfSd6i8SwgQaarxQxCYpa395hxdg9E6wAsIEDQzQ8KhzFTx1pXd2c363FSXnhPngU-2BbnwwEwh4RtlEoc7efXH86OeTlERnjGjvtA4-3DDcJS_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiNR1KTPrlgi5CzqNVFZfPWpIUCO0wFIHLa-2BR1LqN9LOm7ksX9WnAeAbNGTHwEOQKIgCZ7Gol3SS5EXkfiCcnm35e2ZcqM9NtR-2FGEF43Cd5K8cSGUjHOKiCt8nhkH-2Bxn8dEreRS3EXEYs-2BehzEyLTZbRCWeNYQzXCQ1gs3mMgw32XRZLTEPGnWTxZaP-2FkCI-2BG4daBYtImv6Em-2BZCvvPumKqU-3D) [*Catholic News Agency*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJ2Fr1c5BwvNAHkNurTrY7pRPbVW-2FfjByerV3tCAr3KKgR-2BtsfpfSd6i8SwgQaarxQxCYpa395hxdg9E6wAsIEDQzQ8KhzFTx1pXd2c363FSXnhPngU-2BbnwwEwh4RtlEoc7efXH86OeTlERnjGjvtA4-3DefBa_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiK43GmkgEUy1E70FMnXEX6UkVvqkJo02cTXu9qDdqKw1hd9PbvC9MIjc6gYUM0gPa49HoZhRyLGiSrQ7f121euzivaDNSRYyhRmQWWDrP3mu71X2A2JL-2FgHNKsLvnRJ-2BGDBFFtpNN71OzapCzVEXr2rMOCOBbUp7vwE0hPAkhz9lhVfIhj4LEV5xUyhhxelJJmmP-2FyPCgswfP5HhG1Vg1kQ-3D) **Applying the News Story** Discuss the common goals of Christian Lent and Islamic Ramadan. Consider the perspective of TWW Team Member Liz Antonson, who believes that there is value in having "spiritual solidarity with others of a different faith in a secular world that is increasingly perverse and self-destructive." **The Big Questions** 1. What have you given up for Lent, if anything? If you have made a sacrifice, what value has it had to you? 2. When have you engaged in fasting, and what was your experience? Sometimes fasting is voluntary, as in a spiritual practice, and sometimes it is involuntary, as in preparation for a medical procedure. What did fasting teach you? 3. Where do you find value in the season of Lent? How do you make this time of year spiritually significant? 4. Have you ever studied Ramadan or talked to a Muslim neighbor about it? Compare and contrast it with Christian Lent. 5. What does your church offer in preparation for Holy Week and Easter? What is meaningful to you? What more would be helpful to you? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Exodus 34:27-28** *The LORD said to Moses, "Write these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you and with Israel." He was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights; he neither ate bread nor drank water. And he wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant, the ten commandments.* (For context [Exodus 34:27-35](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxeUd9Vmpl90lk2kwaMbS8RAPx61ll6DGj1tuEdL5mc-2FJobruho6Xnr4xImU0jfoCrykYm_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiPtw9r2ajFi5LHP-2F3RKHKJMhYfT2TbYUcAABXLaqZkZMXhWUgQoiRU2vDm5wTrVgc80xUPQOtNJ-2Bzbg0MR5lUAB2oqCUHU9cDaFx1zIY9Kg8geBNdT4p-2BoX2PvJyHbUEgTWaRcDUJQl1hJd14tkmYw-2FTXDMPTJqr0KY2vFi8-2Bs0C9UnO3NvOI0rIsiu0OdP2vxWec1G6xLJiizxbGr2jnQs-3D).) In chapter 20 of the book of Exodus, God speaks the words of the ten commandments to Moses. In the chapters that follow, God gives laws concerning slaves, violence, property and restitution. On Mount Sinai, Moses also receives instructions about the ark of the covenant, the tabernacle, vestments for the priesthood and other instructions for worship. When Moses is delayed in coming down the mountain, the people of Israel make a golden calf. God is furious, but Moses convinces him not to bring disaster on the people. When Moses goes down the mountain, he becomes angry himself. He breaks the tablets of the covenant and burns the golden calf. In chapter 34, Moses makes two new tablets and goes back up the mountain to renew the covenant with God. He stays on the mountain for 40 days (the same length as the season of Lent) and he fasts -- "he neither ate bread nor drank water." He writes the ten commandments on the new tablets and then takes them down the mountain to the people. At this point, "the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God" (v. 29). > **Questions:** Why do you think Moses fasted while he was spending time with God on Mount Sinai? How did it help him to focus on the word of God? When, if ever, have you made an effort to eliminate distractions and grow closer to God? What happened? **Isaiah 58:6-7***Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover them and not to hide yourself from your own kin?* (For context, read [Isaiah 58:1-8](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx8fPDsj5S5hW7hBewUShLx0ZTPSWOqOCdj3EEvcjkyLHtFGW4bAxXFpZNivvRn0TnuIlW_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiJp3-2B4klIEq5D18KxMX6pyW5tofHcRJuz0uGDnuWRt-2F3UK1LPbAnLaD-2BBXdzXB3TniwcrBnPgOC-2FIdYVObrzFxa3kaJyZxio9flzwzAIa9PK8DTr11CV9UpxrrcXK2qutmTVwTY-2BxJ9YWCaHCrawnNRFqH-2Bda75GXptXKDV4X-2F8Dzqq-2BVaAwLqg4o-2F7YHDC-2FmNmdcprCAD8k0nGQR4rKVzY-3D).) The prophet Isaiah makes a contrast between false and true worship, and he denounces religious fasts that are not accompanied by just actions. "Look, you serve your own interest on your fast day and oppress all your workers," he says to the people of Jerusalem, on the day that the people have denied themselves food as a gesture of devotion to God (v. 3). Isaiah knows that a fast is meaningless to God if it is accompanied by service to self and the oppression of workers. Wanting to show a better way to fast, God says through Isaiah, "Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?" Rather than giving up eating, the people of Jerusalem should give up injustice and oppression. Bread that is sacrificed for a fast should be shared with the hungry, and a fast day should be used as an opportunity to help the homeless and the naked. > **Questions:** Instead of giving up something for God, have you ever taken on a new challenge? What did you do? How did it align with the purposes of God? **Luke 4:3-4***The devil said to [Jesus], "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become a loaf of bread." Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'One does not live by bread alone.'"* (For context, read [Luke 4:1-13](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxr2uOTCNrsMcEcQV7l8ZPnQSXU5mSYP2Axow-2BHVONs0FH2zoqRVCW-2BgORpWHBm8YfH8-f_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiLvPr5BCHfJr4qAbuQ23Eav0HFJgG610Zhy8EYc4ECUYVeKgiIw4GAr-2FZXpF4GK2MnxtIUwTBqyjnwhQh1ZaZQevGnf0B-2FsbfySO4HH2mbtVISTZghkhGVoMXnV4ijkINQ9WGDLqr0Twbo-2Bo6fkDTzocj6sX7w639YMGQ3S-2BoEsVKkvCHDrEWWhAuVN8Kl33zxmsufwdflbg48BvtAeZAFc-3D).) In Luke's story of the temptation, Jesus sends a clear message about the power of the word "no." The story begins after the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River, when the Holy Spirit descends on him in bodily form, like a dove. Then Jesus, "full of the Holy Spirit," returns from the Jordan and is "led by the Spirit in the wilderness," where for 40 days he is tested by the devil (v. 1). The first thing that the devil dangles before Jesus is bread, knowing full well that Jesus is famished after fasting for 40 days. "If you are the Son of God," says the devil, "command this stone to become a loaf of bread." Jesus is really hungry, he has a physical need for bread, and he has the power to make a rock edible if he chooses to do so. He knows that bread is good and that God wants to give us our daily bread. But instead of filling his stomach, Jesus says, "It is written, 'One does not live by bread alone.'" Jesus is quoting Deuteronomy, a passage that goes on to say, "... but by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD" (8:3). There is more to life than the meeting of physical needs, according to Deuteronomy and Jesus -- much more important is striving to live by the word of God. Since it is the devil who suggests that he satisfy his hunger with bread, Jesus simply has to respond "no." > **Questions:** When have you said "no" to food or drink that you found tempting, and what gave you the power to refuse? What did you learn from your act of self-denial? When have you given in to such temptation, and how did it make you feel? What does it mean to you to live by the word of God, instead of by bread alone? **Acts 13:1-3***Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a childhood friend of Herod the ruler, and Saul. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.* (For context, read [Acts 13:1-5](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxDVkCctavpENb-2BvQevwAGq95czMDS4U7Q0xLmYGWhIWoZlP-2FquOFeSt6DeaKCBfWWH0pC_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiLfohQ2bURkUaSMuwdkvORrNCFmCt2Mwqzk0-2BthTbXwuQT1P7ic6a-2FsbJxDPa2DlBePrB7T4d2rWcJLQ5XeC8qnzrAfK50YOgnQvNwWSIDWyOgSU7zHilIPljldDEVEI8AcHuY10psGtq1Dq5eTYfIw2FA609lvvQkss8AE8-2BPza-2BBkHwGsnn9C0PKnSZlUxgJotM9shDJHcd90EfBz6X-2BY-3D).) The book of Acts tells us that Barnabas was the first leader of the church in Antioch, located in modern-day Turkey, by the Syrian border. Barnabas was quickly joined by Saul, and "for an entire year they met with the church and taught a great many people." It was in Antioch that the followers of Christ were first called "Christians" (11:26). In the 13th chapter of Acts, we learn that there were "prophets and teachers" in Antioch, including Barnabas and Saul, and their spiritual practices included "worshiping the Lord and fasting." While they were doing this, the Holy Spirit directed them to set apart Barnabas and Saul for the work of traveling to Cyprus and proclaiming "the word of God in the Jewish synagogues" (v. 5). After "fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off." The laying-on of hands is used in the Bible for a variety of purposes, including commissioning and the imparting of the Holy Spirit. > **Questions:** What connection do you make between worship, fasting, prayer and the Holy Spirit? How might fasting (or some other sacrifice) make a person more sensitive to the leading of the Spirit? When, if ever, have you made a sacrifice and felt closer to God's will and God's way? **For Further Discussion** 1. TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez recalls that "Melchizedek greeted Abram who accepted his blessing [[Genesis 14:17-20](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxdxvwvUIbrGNsYJ-2B9LkHJNaGBDO38zSmTa-2FrIX12lL6cZi7hVpCoePxWbHXa98unxodRD_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiHELXdZTmMHWFivsGnm5qazOccEfTp8GYYfUz56Gb4boIWZv-2BcXNteuf-2FS1oK5hEvEr2bXcib9R9qRnxjbU37bqTzQxDutKOzdlg1CIOwnzpLWTrr6wNuNeunkipEHEWdQ-2Bh2WLO1X8dv3aWZHfoSaXQmWmvvCrIJGUDBOUjS-2F6GQbPvCRagLoBkmzQuPZgr9W6It1WYSGR-2Bs16tyh0fmHE-3D)]. His name meant 'Zadok is my King.' He worshipped in a different faith, but Abram welcomed him and shared in a time of worship. Most Christians are at least aware of Jewish observances. Why don't we have a similar awareness and respect for Ramadan and other observances of Islam?" What do you know about Islam and its various observances? How can you bless people of other faiths and be blessed by them? 2. If you have Muslim neighbors, they may invite you to come to their house for a fast-breaking dinner called an "iftar." These meals are held at sunset each night during Ramadan, and they focus on hospitality and community. If you have been to an iftar, what was it like and what did you learn? If you have not, would you accept such an invitation? Why or why not? 3. The 31-year-old nephew of TWW Team Member Bill Tammeus was a passenger on the first plane to smash into the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. That unthinkable catastrophe required Bill as a journalist to help explain "what happened to turn people into religious extremists willing to murder innocent people." In the years since that horror, Bill has participated in many iftar dinners, and he says, "What I most appreciate about these gatherings is the chance to meet people who are living generous and generative lives within some branch of Islam. It gives me -- and you -- a chance to recognize our common humanity and to recommit ourselves to the pledge never to dehumanize others. In my Christian tradition, many of us would put it this way: Dehumanizing others insults God, whose very image every human being bears." Discuss. 4. Bill Bright, Cru's co-founder, made it his [practice to fast and pray](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPLbhTPqtUJfxr-2BU5HpxyUhUFyCCNGBkNI-2BOPjdqi0xCTTEa4FoNGn94Ty7fY3RpAs6hQGEwu73v-2BLI08wPuJ5f-2FZfnjsJUeIE2NDfclmAcEMog-2FElRqb9S0979N8YkWBkQ-3D-3D4vsP_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiOZD-2BMKu-2BRJhW5XjQeuqnVyvlXhz6rWaQHWC9kvXJaq3hvXfv8OR5BqZiawXI2fc3DLfKRQIqAB8sQ-2FeF5kgYwiBEeGDC811NlpUQh0tvFd9tFtka7IXooLWOfbZMWm2GhzE3y85B1Xldd-2F5aVWMhkU-2FFHOUxA1-2B5Vq4l1JEyqjCC5kj8SzfN-2BDGSMqWwPg4iTYb0HYdSnti2MX1NQGFAP0-3D). He said, "Fasting enables the Holy Spirit to reveal your true spiritual condition, resulting in brokenness, repentance and a transformed life." When, if ever, has a sacrifice such as fasting revealed something important about your spiritual condition? What connections do you see between brokenness, repentance and transformation? **Responding to the News** Find a spiritual practice that will enable you to grow closer to God and to Jesus during the weeks that lead up to Holy Week and Easter. It could be prayer, fasting, giving to the poor -- or some combination. Make a commitment to practice it each day, and note what happens. Be open to what the Lord will do in and through you. **Prayer** Send your Holy Spirit on us, Lord, so that this season will truly be a springtime of our souls. Help us to grow in faith, understanding and compassion toward people in need. In Jesus' name. Amen. ****Copyright 2025 Communication Resources**** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=ZVCc-b5o7cIqpzlw6gEqlI3BmQXUoV2GiBjxWw4LxB1oMDAwdTAwMAumaVTmJ_nquOQbOsXdqtoUwGXlSlF02z6-XR3JoGdefMWjqPlgA7W42D0g9Qzy3MDd68UvsBqeum5-KK2Wl8mimuzl9EEcsv01d5ElbPDMxd2E2SPEMrGa2cSGBL4FPAsHNq-Yzc9u_d4B2orA0qJDYoa6uRtU7j-trfPO3Sy5qIySV_vtXh12lRcqtsEJ_tk2Oc-jmnSbbSYFeSrGD2k_H2bVgUQIZ9dmvOKcCJSkAx3tcPqShAERBej2fXX8iB4zMFg8hw3jA8KiuO0dXfEmflh0PrxG4WFfjvlq79RKJovnLGWeVvXjT84aM59LoJLGmKEQ2cztzU7E0bBPMZamNcYisP3iU09pnJ6GvzN3zhJwNV3_TQwdF7nPkLutuqTHZ3g6cwpZ5fU0E1tiYdiaD4aGuTvrUl8K9W2EjYhTFSlpoWBiuaNtO7v6SmboyyR__n79mnHIhhOkAMMbyExn79bq1KMbjVDjDAhIEbZgNiUgi3q5psSudXCw7HsYnI0Mw_iOR5Ui21qWZzm05iRxQd4NCrKmtNvMn4JFh90IERyqU-OilbpAjc2rI5Wa9IG0VF0xsKAVZUkLmvGLpaE=) <div>Dear Class Members, At this time of year, many Christians are choosing to give up something for Lent, at the same time that Muslim neighbors are fasting for Ramadan. Because so many people are making sacrifices these days, this installment of The Wired Word will focus on the value of fasting in the Christian life. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> The Fasting Seasons of Lent and Ramadan Overlap in 2025 The Wired Word for the Week of March 23, 2025 In the News During the season of Lent, which began on Ash Wednesday and lasts through Holy Week, many Christians are choosing to give up something. They may stop eating chocolate, abstain from drinking alcohol or quit checking Facebook. They make these sacrifices as a way to deepen their faith and focus on Christ's sacrifice on the cross. Traditionally, the season has focused on prayer, fasting and giving to the poor. The word "Lent" comes from the Old English word "lencten," meaning "spring season" or "lengthening (of daylight hours)." For many Christians, it is considered to be the "springtime of the soul," a time for spiritual growth. Lent lasts for 40 days because Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness, which coincided with his temptation by the devil. The season appears to last longer than 40 days because the six Sundays in the season are not counted in the total. This year, Lent overlaps with the Islamic observance of Ramadan, a month of fasting spent in prayer, contemplation, giving to the needy and asking for forgiveness for sins. Ramadan began on the last day of February (or first day of March), and runs through Sunday, March 30. Although not all Christians observe Lent, it is a meaningful season for millions of Catholics and members of many other Christian denominations around the world. "During Lent, we are asked to devote ourselves to seeking the Lord in prayer and reading Scripture, service by giving alms, and to practice self-control through fasting," said the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) to the Pensacola News Journal. For some, the act of fasting is simply giving up a favorite indulgence for Lent. But for others, fasting includes greater sacrifices. So, what is the significance of fasting? For many Christians, fasting is a sacrifice designed to help them to move closer to God. It reminds them of the truth of Deuteronomy 8:3: "One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD." Speaking to the devil in the wilderness, Jesus quoted this verse when he was tempted to end his own fast by turning a stone into a loaf of bread (Luke 4:4). Although not all evangelical Christians observe Lent, many practice fasting. Bill Bright, the co-founder of the campus-ministry organization Cru, made a practice of fasting and praying. He believed it played a vital role in what God did through him and through Cru as a ministry. He said, "Fasting is a biblical way to truly humble yourself in the sight of God," and he was convinced that it strengthened a person's confidence and faith in God, while also refreshing a person mentally, spiritually and physically. For Muslims during Ramadan, fasting is done by abstaining from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. Fasting is understood to be a way to cleanse the soul, increase faith and foster a stronger connection with God. It is also an act of self-discipline, teaching patience, self-control and empathy for those who may not have enough to eat. Finally, fasting fosters a sense of community and unity among Muslims around the world, as they fast and worship together. During Lent, Christians pursue many of the same goals, as they take action to draw closer to God, practice self-discipline and improve their practice of the faith. They use the season to focus on worship, prayer and fasting -- although their fasting does not need to run from sunrise to sunset every day. Instead, they often give up something important to them, and they take actions to show compassion for people who are less fortunate than themselves. In a recent message, the Vatican noted similarities between the Muslim observance of Ramadan and the Christian observance of Lent. "By abstaining from food and drink, Muslims learn to control their desires and turn to what is essential. This time of spiritual discipline is an invitation to cultivate piety, the virtue that brings one closer to God and opens the heart to others," it said. "In the Christian tradition, the holy season of Lent invites us to follow a similar path: Through fasting, prayer, and almsgiving we seek to purify our hearts and refocus on the One who guides and directs our lives," the Vatican's message went on. "These spiritual practices, though expressed differently, remind us that faith is not merely about outward expressions but a path of inner conversion." Christians have an opportunity to move closer to God during the season of Lent, by fasting or practicing other spiritual disciplines. Along with fellow Christians, they can use this time of year to renew faith, seek forgiveness, practice gratitude, show humility and give to people in need. And they can look for opportunities to reach out in friendship to Muslim neighbors, who are walking a similar path. Many Christian churches and denominations add a Lenten theme to their observances, in order to provide focus and guidance to individuals and congregations. The Lent 2025 calendar from the USCCB invites people to "Reflect. Repent. Restore." This year's theme in the Church of England is "Living Hope," and themes in other churches include "Bread of Life," "Take Heart," "Into the Deep" and more. All invite people to grow in faith throughout this "springtime of the soul." More on this story can be found at these links: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMShz3SoGdbNVsDVgdAPiBXxnWvarub4N9fifu94AqXdzoKbXC83x5KklbAiRXVO8URaIH-2B3j-2B0ZY9m4N7nePmz-2BeUs3qREDavpIekYJiNQXfLkkYRKwaJG69Nm-2B08P9aCTc-2BSyI0fDtoldIlbpS-2FdA-3DCzdg\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiGhq7iwzSVyoG5J28LG-2F2o-2BeA6XfPp7lyP-2FnZdM8Qnv9X5S3hozG2fkorvPuRzO1BVxY04mh8KjZG48NKRUDD9XX1CaExDDj8HCWibY07hOszJPypGxLbKWkBj-2FdyZoKSVabQpoc4VywvY-2BKnEfBKFqciaaOjrPsnFZA-2FV9GhHuGe7L2lBWFoa-2BxyXx5h6Snnrno8hfXKN-2FFMQGQy2nE6M8-3D">When Is Lent 2025? When Is Ash Wednesday? What Happens During the Christian Event? </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMShz3SoGdbNVsDVgdAPiBXxnWvarub4N9fifu94AqXdzoKbXC83x5KklbAiRXVO8URaIH-2B3j-2B0ZY9m4N7nePmz-2BeUs3qREDavpIekYJiNQXfLkkYRKwaJG69Nm-2B08P9aCTc-2BSyI0fDtoldIlbpS-2FdA-3Dy5oF\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiHDNaHxlYRFxHrTcIcbvZ2iSKeCgfiN3KwBN2Kmewq6BWCgmquYxrPyb7OVCcVQLZNVBsnu3HI1IDkL8wjn89aippwJGmkRUEQz1W0qMR-2BHoWVK-2BMe23KKd-2Fud1FQD44OUNezyfDjkd07dX1aWhKo122WcEg5htSxwFjc5BFpwhnddpcYoTh6Yeb3DVTd91Lrh1rLdFIf8UmpNehl-2B7wNCw-3D">Pensacola News Journal</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBhdewrnUW-2BJBW-2FRJ-2B0698-2FzuvW4JFn-2FdOctEocun-2F4KI4Xt\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiPzztsrSsdBhthSTuZxlpbjvePCs-2FAjv4MQuRvAXm3-2FBR07xVLKOI8pGuv0VF1IBmsOOq4Urm26Qw1g1U0A9Dhy2rtViaTzc-2FqGIYY-2B8wUlTtzr3kJ3Ce4DzhTmFpOPWb0IozHrjk-2FErkG1-2BlbVESNnVR1scnixp4X-2FP414a6C5usXpMpvCAIiYF1YImKzJgtHXSrfz59Gs-2FmrHk7fAy61U-3D">What Is Biblical Fasting and Does It Work? </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBhdewrnUW-2BJBW-2FRJ-2B0698-2FzuvW4JFn-2FdOctEocun-2F4KVwb-\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiIL2xJGD6wSgtj5INVWKGKBq2f73p4PSBqBv5DlXzuBu4XJpkGfS2zbsSu7QhXuHL9tEYz3SKC2K-2BJlswXZtE90gfuCS8vG8sN-2FqfVaJyfObwXe6YLOb0fp738GsXPXsVqwYSAgXZtlk-2BQChGCI61eVcfNxmvWRxX2rVz5rqzrZVw56Hx4ytv60T5di89p0rc-2BOWfBBTZYkIefuk9kmuOAM-3D">Cru</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJ2Fr1c5BwvNAHkNurTrY7pRPbVW-2FfjByerV3tCAr3KKgR-2BtsfpfSd6i8SwgQaarxQxCYpa395hxdg9E6wAsIEDQzQ8KhzFTx1pXd2c363FSXnhPngU-2BbnwwEwh4RtlEoc7efXH86OeTlERnjGjvtA4-3DDcJS\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiNR1KTPrlgi5CzqNVFZfPWpIUCO0wFIHLa-2BR1LqN9LOm7ksX9WnAeAbNGTHwEOQKIgCZ7Gol3SS5EXkfiCcnm35e2ZcqM9NtR-2FGEF43Cd5K8cSGUjHOKiCt8nhkH-2Bxn8dEreRS3EXEYs-2BehzEyLTZbRCWeNYQzXCQ1gs3mMgw32XRZLTEPGnWTxZaP-2FkCI-2BG4daBYtImv6Em-2BZCvvPumKqU-3D">Vatican Expresses Solidarity With Muslims During Ramadan Fast. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJ2Fr1c5BwvNAHkNurTrY7pRPbVW-2FfjByerV3tCAr3KKgR-2BtsfpfSd6i8SwgQaarxQxCYpa395hxdg9E6wAsIEDQzQ8KhzFTx1pXd2c363FSXnhPngU-2BbnwwEwh4RtlEoc7efXH86OeTlERnjGjvtA4-3DefBa\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiK43GmkgEUy1E70FMnXEX6UkVvqkJo02cTXu9qDdqKw1hd9PbvC9MIjc6gYUM0gPa49HoZhRyLGiSrQ7f121euzivaDNSRYyhRmQWWDrP3mu71X2A2JL-2FgHNKsLvnRJ-2BGDBFFtpNN71OzapCzVEXr2rMOCOBbUp7vwE0hPAkhz9lhVfIhj4LEV5xUyhhxelJJmmP-2FyPCgswfP5HhG1Vg1kQ-3D">Catholic News Agency</a> Applying the News Story <div style="mso-element: para-border-div; border: none; border-bottom: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in 0in 8.0pt 0in; background: white;"> Discuss the common goals of Christian Lent and Islamic Ramadan. Consider the perspective of TWW Team Member Liz Antonson, who believes that there is value in having "spiritual solidarity with others of a different faith in a secular world that is increasingly perverse and self-destructive." </div> The Big Questions 1. What have you given up for Lent, if anything? If you have made a sacrifice, what value has it had to you? 2. When have you engaged in fasting, and what was your experience? Sometimes fasting is voluntary, as in a spiritual practice, and sometimes it is involuntary, as in preparation for a medical procedure. What did fasting teach you? 3. Where do you find value in the season of Lent? How do you make this time of year spiritually significant? 4. Have you ever studied Ramadan or talked to a Muslim neighbor about it? Compare and contrast it with Christian Lent. 5. What does your church offer in preparation for Holy Week and Easter? What is meaningful to you? What more would be helpful to you? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Exodus 34:27-28 The LORD said to Moses, "Write these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you and with Israel." He was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights; he neither ate bread nor drank water. And he wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant, the ten commandments. (For context <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxeUd9Vmpl90lk2kwaMbS8RAPx61ll6DGj1tuEdL5mc-2FJobruho6Xnr4xImU0jfoCrykYm\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiPtw9r2ajFi5LHP-2F3RKHKJMhYfT2TbYUcAABXLaqZkZMXhWUgQoiRU2vDm5wTrVgc80xUPQOtNJ-2Bzbg0MR5lUAB2oqCUHU9cDaFx1zIY9Kg8geBNdT4p-2BoX2PvJyHbUEgTWaRcDUJQl1hJd14tkmYw-2FTXDMPTJqr0KY2vFi8-2Bs0C9UnO3NvOI0rIsiu0OdP2vxWec1G6xLJiizxbGr2jnQs-3D">Exodus 34:27-35</a>.) In chapter 20 of the book of Exodus, God speaks the words of the ten commandments to Moses. In the chapters that follow, God gives laws concerning slaves, violence, property and restitution. On Mount Sinai, Moses also receives instructions about the ark of the covenant, the tabernacle, vestments for the priesthood and other instructions for worship. When Moses is delayed in coming down the mountain, the people of Israel make a golden calf. God is furious, but Moses convinces him not to bring disaster on the people. When Moses goes down the mountain, he becomes angry himself. He breaks the tablets of the covenant and burns the golden calf. In chapter 34, Moses makes two new tablets and goes back up the mountain to renew the covenant with God. He stays on the mountain for 40 days (the same length as the season of Lent) and he fasts -- "he neither ate bread nor drank water." He writes the ten commandments on the new tablets and then takes them down the mountain to the people. At this point, "the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God" (v. 29). <blockquote> Questions: Why do you think Moses fasted while he was spending time with God on Mount Sinai? How did it help him to focus on the word of God? When, if ever, have you made an effort to eliminate distractions and grow closer to God? What happened? </blockquote> Isaiah 58:6-7 Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover them and not to hide yourself from your own kin? (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx8fPDsj5S5hW7hBewUShLx0ZTPSWOqOCdj3EEvcjkyLHtFGW4bAxXFpZNivvRn0TnuIlW\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiJp3-2B4klIEq5D18KxMX6pyW5tofHcRJuz0uGDnuWRt-2F3UK1LPbAnLaD-2BBXdzXB3TniwcrBnPgOC-2FIdYVObrzFxa3kaJyZxio9flzwzAIa9PK8DTr11CV9UpxrrcXK2qutmTVwTY-2BxJ9YWCaHCrawnNRFqH-2Bda75GXptXKDV4X-2F8Dzqq-2BVaAwLqg4o-2F7YHDC-2FmNmdcprCAD8k0nGQR4rKVzY-3D">Isaiah 58:1-8</a>.) The prophet Isaiah makes a contrast between false and true worship, and he denounces religious fasts that are not accompanied by just actions. "Look, you serve your own interest on your fast day and oppress all your workers," he says to the people of Jerusalem, on the day that the people have denied themselves food as a gesture of devotion to God (v. 3). Isaiah knows that a fast is meaningless to God if it is accompanied by service to self and the oppression of workers. Wanting to show a better way to fast, God says through Isaiah, "Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?" Rather than giving up eating, the people of Jerusalem should give up injustice and oppression. Bread that is sacrificed for a fast should be shared with the hungry, and a fast day should be used as an opportunity to help the homeless and the naked. <blockquote> Questions: Instead of giving up something for God, have you ever taken on a new challenge? What did you do? How did it align with the purposes of God? </blockquote> Luke 4:3-4 The devil said to [Jesus], "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become a loaf of bread." Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'One does not live by bread alone.'" (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxr2uOTCNrsMcEcQV7l8ZPnQSXU5mSYP2Axow-2BHVONs0FH2zoqRVCW-2BgORpWHBm8YfH8-f\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiLvPr5BCHfJr4qAbuQ23Eav0HFJgG610Zhy8EYc4ECUYVeKgiIw4GAr-2FZXpF4GK2MnxtIUwTBqyjnwhQh1ZaZQevGnf0B-2FsbfySO4HH2mbtVISTZghkhGVoMXnV4ijkINQ9WGDLqr0Twbo-2Bo6fkDTzocj6sX7w639YMGQ3S-2BoEsVKkvCHDrEWWhAuVN8Kl33zxmsufwdflbg48BvtAeZAFc-3D">Luke 4:1-13</a>.) In Luke's story of the temptation, Jesus sends a clear message about the power of the word "no." The story begins after the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River, when the Holy Spirit descends on him in bodily form, like a dove. Then Jesus, "full of the Holy Spirit," returns from the Jordan and is "led by the Spirit in the wilderness," where for 40 days he is tested by the devil (v. 1). The first thing that the devil dangles before Jesus is bread, knowing full well that Jesus is famished after fasting for 40 days. "If you are the Son of God," says the devil, "command this stone to become a loaf of bread." Jesus is really hungry, he has a physical need for bread, and he has the power to make a rock edible if he chooses to do so. He knows that bread is good and that God wants to give us our daily bread. But instead of filling his stomach, Jesus says, "It is written, 'One does not live by bread alone.'" Jesus is quoting Deuteronomy, a passage that goes on to say, "... but by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD" (8:3). There is more to life than the meeting of physical needs, according to Deuteronomy and Jesus -- much more important is striving to live by the word of God. Since it is the devil who suggests that he satisfy his hunger with bread, Jesus simply has to respond "no." <blockquote> Questions: When have you said "no" to food or drink that you found tempting, and what gave you the power to refuse? What did you learn from your act of self-denial? When have you given in to such temptation, and how did it make you feel? What does it mean to you to live by the word of God, instead of by bread alone? </blockquote> Acts 13:1-3 Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a childhood friend of Herod the ruler, and Saul. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxDVkCctavpENb-2BvQevwAGq95czMDS4U7Q0xLmYGWhIWoZlP-2FquOFeSt6DeaKCBfWWH0pC\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiLfohQ2bURkUaSMuwdkvORrNCFmCt2Mwqzk0-2BthTbXwuQT1P7ic6a-2FsbJxDPa2DlBePrB7T4d2rWcJLQ5XeC8qnzrAfK50YOgnQvNwWSIDWyOgSU7zHilIPljldDEVEI8AcHuY10psGtq1Dq5eTYfIw2FA609lvvQkss8AE8-2BPza-2BBkHwGsnn9C0PKnSZlUxgJotM9shDJHcd90EfBz6X-2BY-3D">Acts 13:1-5</a>.) The book of Acts tells us that Barnabas was the first leader of the church in Antioch, located in modern-day Turkey, by the Syrian border. Barnabas was quickly joined by Saul, and "for an entire year they met with the church and taught a great many people." It was in Antioch that the followers of Christ were first called "Christians" (11:26). In the 13th chapter of Acts, we learn that there were "prophets and teachers" in Antioch, including Barnabas and Saul, and their spiritual practices included "worshiping the Lord and fasting." While they were doing this, the Holy Spirit directed them to set apart Barnabas and Saul for the work of traveling to Cyprus and proclaiming "the word of God in the Jewish synagogues" (v. 5). After "fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off." The laying-on of hands is used in the Bible for a variety of purposes, including commissioning and the imparting of the Holy Spirit. <blockquote> Questions: What connection do you make between worship, fasting, prayer and the Holy Spirit? How might fasting (or some other sacrifice) make a person more sensitive to the leading of the Spirit? When, if ever, have you made a sacrifice and felt closer to God's will and God's way? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez recalls that "Melchizedek greeted Abram who accepted his blessing [<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxdxvwvUIbrGNsYJ-2B9LkHJNaGBDO38zSmTa-2FrIX12lL6cZi7hVpCoePxWbHXa98unxodRD\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiHELXdZTmMHWFivsGnm5qazOccEfTp8GYYfUz56Gb4boIWZv-2BcXNteuf-2FS1oK5hEvEr2bXcib9R9qRnxjbU37bqTzQxDutKOzdlg1CIOwnzpLWTrr6wNuNeunkipEHEWdQ-2Bh2WLO1X8dv3aWZHfoSaXQmWmvvCrIJGUDBOUjS-2F6GQbPvCRagLoBkmzQuPZgr9W6It1WYSGR-2Bs16tyh0fmHE-3D">Genesis 14:17-20</a>]. His name meant 'Zadok is my King.' He worshipped in a different faith, but Abram welcomed him and shared in a time of worship. Most Christians are at least aware of Jewish observances. Why don't we have a similar awareness and respect for Ramadan and other observances of Islam?" What do you know about Islam and its various observances? How can you bless people of other faiths and be blessed by them? 2. If you have Muslim neighbors, they may invite you to come to their house for a fast-breaking dinner called an "iftar." These meals are held at sunset each night during Ramadan, and they focus on hospitality and community. If you have been to an iftar, what was it like and what did you learn? If you have not, would you accept such an invitation? Why or why not? 3. The 31-year-old nephew of TWW Team Member Bill Tammeus was a passenger on the first plane to smash into the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. That unthinkable catastrophe required Bill as a journalist to help explain "what happened to turn people into religious extremists willing to murder innocent people." In the years since that horror, Bill has participated in many iftar dinners, and he says, "What I most appreciate about these gatherings is the chance to meet people who are living generous and generative lives within some branch of Islam. It gives me -- and you -- a chance to recognize our common humanity and to recommit ourselves to the pledge never to dehumanize others. In my Christian tradition, many of us would put it this way: Dehumanizing others insults God, whose very image every human being bears." Discuss. 4. Bill Bright, Cru's co-founder, made it his <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPLbhTPqtUJfxr-2BU5HpxyUhUFyCCNGBkNI-2BOPjdqi0xCTTEa4FoNGn94Ty7fY3RpAs6hQGEwu73v-2BLI08wPuJ5f-2FZfnjsJUeIE2NDfclmAcEMog-2FElRqb9S0979N8YkWBkQ-3D-3D4vsP\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmT5dlKJTfOGz5BguSlV0XhDyPbnBDaYUGe4wklus-2BrKH9AsAI4dgajYXF5dNPs2TiOZD-2BMKu-2BRJhW5XjQeuqnVyvlXhz6rWaQHWC9kvXJaq3hvXfv8OR5BqZiawXI2fc3DLfKRQIqAB8sQ-2FeF5kgYwiBEeGDC811NlpUQh0tvFd9tFtka7IXooLWOfbZMWm2GhzE3y85B1Xldd-2F5aVWMhkU-2FFHOUxA1-2B5Vq4l1JEyqjCC5kj8SzfN-2BDGSMqWwPg4iTYb0HYdSnti2MX1NQGFAP0-3D"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; color: windowtext; background: white; mso-highlight: white; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">practice to fast and pray</a>. He said, "Fasting enables the Holy Spirit to reveal your true spiritual condition, resulting in brokenness, repentance and a transformed life." When, if ever, has a sacrifice such as fasting revealed something important about your spiritual condition? What connections do you see between brokenness, repentance and transformation? Responding to the News Find a spiritual practice that will enable you to grow closer to God and to Jesus during the weeks that lead up to Holy Week and Easter. It could be prayer, fasting, giving to the poor -- or some combination. Make a commitment to practice it each day, and note what happens. Be open to what the Lord will do in and through you. Prayer Send your Holy Spirit on us, Lord, so that this season will truly be a springtime of our souls. Help us to grow in faith, understanding and compassion toward people in need. In Jesus' name. Amen. 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