Suggested Readings: Psalm 27, Genesis 14:17-24, Philippians 3:17-20
During COVID, I lost my community of church. I found myself alone with all my family in Texas bunkered down together. My connections at work were not deep. And that was my world. Church and work. For the next couple of years, I struggled with my identity as a Christian, whether church was necessary, and overall confusion.
The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?
This verse was swirling in my head. I thought we were fearful to shut the door of the church. I no longer had community and even my closest friend jumped away from a hug. It was painfully lonely during that time, but I grew closer to God.
Last year, God told me its time, time to find a church. I found a church home and placed membership. (Ironically, even after being at my old church for 5 years, I never did.) At the top of year, my church had a 21-day fast, it was suggested to do the Daniel fast. This was all new to me. Fasting with food and fasting with community… and fasting at all if I’m honest.
For the three weeks, morning community prayer was offered daily except on Sunday. Fasting was always on my mind. Is it okay to eat this? Can I drink coffee? What would it be like to give God tithe on everything? Although my fast was not the Daniel fast, I ate more fruits and drank more water. I even gave God the first bites of my meal for a while to experience sacrifice. A search for community will offer a deeper relationship with God. I fasted for GOD. I starved when I did not have to starve. It was such an honor.
Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his sacred tent I will sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the Lord.
Today, play your favorite worship songs and sing at the top of your lungs. It’ll be awesome.
Lauren Sheppard
