Friday, February 16, 2024
“No Meat 24 Hours!”
It’s the first Friday in Lent, which to most of the Christian world may be translated as “Fish Friday”. Red meats, poultry, and pork will be removed from the diets of millions of people in this country and hundreds of millions across the world.
So yes, if you’ve ever wondered why fish is a big deal on Fridays, this is the reason. Long ago in the Church, it was determined that refraining from certain foods and drinks was a good way to show God that we care. Fasting has been a part of worldwide religions and cultures since the beginning of recorded history. Most of the world still holds close to fasting a source of strength, humility, contemplation, and repentance.
Do you remember “Fish Fridays?” Growing up, I remember Friday always included fish or cheese pizza. Of course, I’m not sure a big plate of fried catfish is a healthy substitute (in the South, Friday is catfish day) for my extra pepperoni, but at least my school cafeteria was making an effort.
In our Challenges for Lent 2024, Fridays will always include some form of fasting. Sometimes, the fasts include adding healthy food or drink to our diets. Other times, the fasts will include the removal of food or drink that isn’t exactly healthy. Today’s item, the removal of meat, was chosen because culture already expects it. This is one of those things that won’t shock your friends or family if you choose to avoid the burger and choose a salad or fish sandwich instead.
Of course, lots of folks can’t fast due to health concerns and doctor’s orders. Fasting should never interfere with our medical needs. Instead, we can do other things that show the LORD that we care. For example, if today requires you to consume some form of meat, poultry, or pork, then read the Bible for fifteen minutes instead. Challenge completed.
Today’s Lenten Challenge is to remove meat from our diets for 24 hours. Since you’re asleep for a portion of them, it shouldn’t be too difficult! If you have specific medical needs that require you to have some meat today, read the Bible today. Our purpose is not to appease someone else. Our purpose is to accomplish a little something that shows God we care.
No meat today!
“And when you fast…anoint your head and wash your face, 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, ESV)
