Foodie Fasting

Mind you, I'm not doing a complete fast, but I'm limiting my diet for a week to fruit and veggies with some whole grains (not flour). But I have to confess that any type of fasting is hard. So much of my time is spent planning for, buying for and cooking meals, not to mention eating, that I forget I'm fasting several times throughout each day and start to eat something I shouldn't. I also get a little grouchy when I can't please my palate. But I guess this is the reason I'm fasting.

Celebrating is important. There are more celebrations in the Bible than fasts. But fasting is important too. How easy it is to satisfy the flesh! For example, my son has birthday cake and pie (that his friend made and gave him) sitting around in my kitchen. I've almost taken a bite out of one or the other three times while preparing meals in the last 24 hours. And these aren't even something I'd normally eat--at least not a lot--but when I'm fasting my flesh screams, "UNFAIR!"

I feel sorry for my flesh as it squirms and screams, but you see, like a small child, it must be put back in its proper place. If I never discipline my flesh, deprive it, or make it uncomfortable, then it gets out of hand. It starts to believe it's my god and should control all of my decisions. Worst of all, it becomes more and more difficult to please, like most deities of our own making. The most delicious delicacies become mundane. Like a spoiled child, my flesh whines unable to be satisfied.

So this week I'm putting the child down for a nap. The flesh needs this discomfort. And afterward I will relish each and everything I choose to put in my mouth, recognizing the Lord's provision. I and my flesh will have a renewed sense of thanksgiving.

So here's to the New Year, as I dedicate it to my Lord and Savior (and not to my flesh).


Invigorating Salad Concoction:
Good for a refreshing side dish on a normal winter day or a main dish during a fruit & veggie fast.

Nappa cabbage, thinly sliced
Shredded Carrots
Red Pepper, thinly sliced
Bean Sprouts
Lemon Juice

Mix the cabbage and carrots. Top with a few slices of red pepper and bean sprouts. Squeeze some lemon juice over the top.

Even the flesh can't deny it's great taste!