11 Comments
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Alan Hirsch's avatar

Great stuff there AJ—as always! Deb and I are just starting on a journey of learning about fasting. I’ve never thought of it as ‘normative’ as you indicate for the Orthodox.

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A.J. Swoboda's avatar

Thanks, Alan! I, like you, am learning about fasting right now as well. A difficult ‘upstream’ discipline, for sure. But one that has shown me much in recent years.

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Candice Wright-Rendon's avatar

So interesting and insightful, A.J.! As I continue to lose my physical life, I find myself completely reliant on the Godhead for my daily bread, which in my case, has become life itself. My fasting of life is my greatest blessing!

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Debi Hassler-Never Forsaken's avatar

This is such an interesting and insightful post! I have never thought of Jesus fasting as a time he was stronger and not weaker. I like the way you tie it all together. You are an exceptional writer.

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A.J. Swoboda's avatar

You are welcome, Debi!

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Adrienne's avatar

Very thought-provoking.

A lot of my work in art school was informed by the fact that I never quite ate enough...but I think that added something that's hard to find otherwise.

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Jody L. Collins's avatar

Goodness, A.J., how this has turned things around for me--particularly looking at the idea of Adam and Eve breaking their 'fast' by eating of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

And the idea that fasting is what God used to provide Jesus with the power and presence of the holy spirit.

You've given me a lot to chew on here.... (no pun intended. well, sort of.)

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Casey Connell's avatar

I have also found that I write best when I am hungry. Usually between my 2nd cup of coffee and first meal (so late morning) I am at my best. That being said, between 2-4 pm it's administrative tasks for me.

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Adrienne's avatar

That's my most productive time as well.

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Justin Aguirre's avatar

This was so insightful. The point of seeing fasting as "normal" is one I will remember for a while as it seems that "being full" is the true way to live. I'm an online fitness and nutrition coach and I'll say that more of this conversation is needed in the church and our world. Take away a man's food and you can see more of his essence.

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Philip Cox's avatar

this is a wonderful piece, AJ! you must’ve been starving…

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