Hi everyone!

Well, our annual community fast begins this Monday and I thought we could chat about how we prepare.

I wonder if you're like me in that every time we do this fast I look forward to it -- Some amazing things have happened in past fasts. But I also feel thoroughly nervous. Going without food is no small thing. For me it's as hard as, say, scuba diving would be, or climbing a very difficult mountain. 

For that reason I find I have to prepare mentally for it as much as physically. So, how do we do that?

First of all, we can be praying for ourselves ahead of this week. It's better to pray when we are feeling fine than when we are hungry and challenged. Quite simply, then:

Lord, help me do this fast. Strengthen me when I'm tempted to break the fast this week. Give me stamina. And please let it be a special week for us all.

Second, we can prepare practically by getting plenty of liquids into the house. For example, on Sunday I'm going to go down to my local foodie shop to buy in some things like protein shakes, bone broth, and juice. I'm also going to buy in some ready-made meals for my family so that I don't have to cook quite so much this coming week.

Third, in spiritual terms, we might want to make a list of things we want to talk to God about over this fast, or things we want to fast about. That said, I'll probably do that on Monday morning once the big week is here.

And finally, consider whether to tell your spouse. It is a good idea to tell them, but it's not always easy to do and it does take some courage as the practice of fasting might seem weird to them. For me it took a couple of years before I told Bryce but eventually I did and I'm glad he knows.

So, those are just a few thoughts. All the best over the weekend as you plan for this, and we'll see you again here on the eve of the fast to kick things off.

Much love to you all

Ann