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Mark 2:19-20
Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them. But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day they will fast.”
There is nothing quite as exciting as a wedding reception. At the appointed time the bride and groom are introduced to rousing applause as they bounce into the room hardly able to contain their excitement. Family and friends celebrate the occasion with conversation and laughter. And . . . there is plenty of food. You don’t go hungry during wedding festivities.
Some people observed that the disciples of John the Baptist and the Pharisees were fasting, but the disciples of Jesus were not. They then questioned Jesus about what appeared to them as a contradiction. He did not hesitate with His answer. Jesus likened Himself to a bridegroom. While He was with His disciples there was no need to fast, but one day He would be taken away and “on that day they will fast.”
The life of a believer is filled with joys and challenges. There are times when we need the focus of fasting to determine where to head on the next stage of the journey. However, in the midst of life don’t forget to celebrate Jesus. He died for you and rose from the dead. The Holy Spirit lives in you! He will give you everything you need to do what He is calling you to do. Don’t forget to celebrate Jesus!
Father, sometimes my prayers are filled with requests and petitions, void of thanksgiving. Sometimes my life is stretched from one frustration to another, void of joy. Help me to celebrate Jesus. Regardless of my situation, remind me that Jesus lives in my heart. In His name. Amen.
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