Fasting has been a Lenten custom from the very beginning of Lent. In our text the Lord Jesus approves of fasting for spiritual purposes - but only for spiritual purposes.

The proper goal of a Christian's fast is to learn self-control. We learn that we can control our bodily appetites and selfish desires. Practicing self-control is a positive, enriching, empowering experience that gives us the dignity and confidence God wants for us as we live His children.

Bethlehem Lutheran Church

Jesus being our savior means clinging to Him with all our might, not trying to maintain our independence

What is always at stake for Christians is their desire as God's people to develop and strengthen their commitment to Jesus.

The Lenten season is an opportunity to take a real moral inventory, to repent and to be renewed. It is a time to pray with David, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me."

Bethlehem Lutheran Church

Jesus gives us the victory over the devil

One of the common misconceptions about Lent is that Lent is a season focused exclusively upon the individual. What am "I" giving up for Lent? As someone once said: "The New Testament knows nothing of a solitary Christian."

Lent underscores our need for Christian comradeship and fellowship throughout our life but especially during our 40-day pilgrimage…from recognition of our frailties to the level of our celebration in Easter's victory.

Bethlehem Lutheran Church

Bethlehem Lutheran Church

Jesus gives us the victory over the devil