My day seemed destined to be challenged from the moment I awoke. Physically, I felt fine. My hunger seems to have subsided quite a bit, although my senses are fully aware of just how much food plays a part in our lives. I smell it, I see it on the counter, I read posts about it, I hear about the last great meal.
I took some time during my day to try and understand what it really means to be hungry. Even though I am not feeling it at this moment, I know I am, and my body tells me I need nourishment. I can't imagine a child or any person being forced to live this way. Living in a place where they fight for scraps or hunt for rodents. It's literally survival.
And what do we do in our country of abundance? We complain because the potatoes were over-salted. We grimace at frozen lasagna or dry turkey. I feel ashamed for my lack of gratitude.
This experience leads me to hear the words of Jesus in Matthew 15:11, "What goes into someones mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them."
How can we absorb the truth of God's Word, and be blessed with the fringe benefit of abundance in our land, only to turn and spew bitterness, anger, and wrath back into His face?
Who are we? May He continue to have mercy on us. May we continue to serve those less fortunate with our abundance. May we serve God in a greater capacity than ever before.
Just knowing that God is guiding you through this 40 day fast is a mighty thing to realize. Knowing that God still has mighty people to take stands like the one you're taking is so (and I'll say it again) encouraging.