Why Fast Sunday Is Awesome

The Savior has been described as the "true and living" God. "True" because He meant what he said and "living" because He is active in the here and now. Repeatedly, He lets us know he is good for the promises he makes.

Isaiah has sage, wonderful insights into the laws which bring great blessings. These principles are delightful to me. I've watched people read and teach these same verses repeatedly, yet they pass over what I believe is essential. Here we go!

If you'll read verse 6 again, you'll notice a principle of fasting that is not stressed very often and yet I believe it embodies the whole spirit of fasting. Fasting is a means of bringing in the Spirit, a means of drawing closer to the Lord. The Lord is in the business of rescuing, of championing, of relieving burdens. Drawing close to Him means doing what He does. As you look around you, between yourself, your family, your ward, your social circle, your community - are there any causes which could use your help? Is there anyone you could extend a hand to, either in visiting, friendship, or kind words? Or maybe a quiet, personal donation of resources or time? Is there a vice in your own life you could give up and get rid of?

"Break every yoke". Yokes are burdens which inhibit freedom and movement. If no one or no situation comes immediately to mind - ask the Lord to open your eyes. There are needs small and great all around you. Free someone, lift someone's burden in whatever way you are uniquely good at or inspired to do. But do conscientiously pick a project and follow through with it. Volunteering at a soup kitchen or an old folks home are a couple of examples here. Something where you go out of your way, like the Samaritan purposely crossing the road to see how he can help.

What in verse 7 needs to be added to your life? Of course we deal our bread to the hungry by paying fast offerings. Pay what you can, no matter the amount. But that is only a part. People are not only poor in resources, but poor in spirit, in circumstance. Who could you befriend who is outside of your comfort zone? Do you serve your own family or do you "hide" from them?

If I could describe a Saint who was fulfilling these verses, it would be someone who is actively putting others before themselves, with an "at your service" attitude. It's generosity of spirit.

Can you picture yourself, how it would feel to do such things for Fast Sunday or any Sunday? The nature of your fasting experience will greatly expand. You will find joy and an increased sense of personal partnership with the Savior.

Isaiah says more in chapter 58, having to do with the Sabbath itself:

The story of Jacob is a fascinating one. Remember how he fled from home with only a stone for a pillow? And became a man of great wealth, of enormous consequence. I especially loved the part about the spotted, ringed, "straked" cattle ~ the rare variations which were promised to Jacob as his wage by Laban. The majority of cattle after Laban made that pact with Jacob were born this way. I don't know why, this story tickles me. If you ask me, his father-in-law Laban deserved it. But Jacob's story centers on achieving the blessings of great wealth - against the odds. And the hand of the Lord was very much in that blessing. Riding on the high places of the earth sounds like a life of interest and adventure. It probably is a blessing as unique as you are. What makes you feel like you're riding on the high places of the earth?

This is where we need to take inventory of ourselves. What is the Sabbath used for in your life? Do you go to church and then come home and treat the rest of the day like a vacation day? Do the TV and video games go on and do we veg out? Ideally, it is a day which includes an extra measure of personal prayer, of study, of ponder, of personal communion and worship, of service, of visiting those in need. I'm fairly convinced “visiting” does not mean family BBQ and picnic day. Even though that is a worthwhile event, it is also entertainment and recreating. Setting the Sabbath aside means dedicating ourselves to gaining an understanding of the Lord and doing the Lord's work. Look around for the Lord's service, pray, ask for inspiration here.

The blessings of mastering the Sabbath and fasting are so significant, they cannot be ignored. Health, wealth, a meaningful connection to the Savior and an interesting life are promised here. These blessings are irrevocably attached to the Sabbath Day laws Isaiah teaches us.

Enjoy your Fast Sunday today!