Fine Outward Training
16 “And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 17 But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
Matthew 6:16–18
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Fasting is part of the Christian life. Martin Luther said, "Fasting is fine outward training..." The thing is, fasting does not make us more holy. Fasting teaches us that we are weak and need a Savior. Therefore we do not fast like the world fasts. We hide our work to discipline ourselves and point ourselves to the cross of Jesus. Jesus gives up all things for you and me. He empties himself, picks up his cross, and offers his life to have you as his own. Your Father in heaven loves you. He applies the treasures of Jesus' work to you. The Christian has moments when he fasts because he mourns and then that fasting and mourning turns to joy and dancing in the presence of God's gifts for us in the divine service.
Matthew 6:16–18
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Fasting is part of the Christian life. Martin Luther said, "Fasting is fine outward training..." The thing is, fasting does not make us more holy. Fasting teaches us that we are weak and need a Savior. Therefore we do not fast like the world fasts. We hide our work to discipline ourselves and point ourselves to the cross of Jesus. Jesus gives up all things for you and me. He empties himself, picks up his cross, and offers his life to have you as his own. Your Father in heaven loves you. He applies the treasures of Jesus' work to you. The Christian has moments when he fasts because he mourns and then that fasting and mourning turns to joy and dancing in the presence of God's gifts for us in the divine service.
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2026
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