(Mark 2:18-22 ESV)
But when I read this passage this morning, it doesn't seem to be so much about mixing old with new, but more about how we act in the presence of the Lord.
When the Lord is WITH US, there is no need to fast.
When he is NOT WITH US, then there is a need to fast.
Jesus' disciples did not fast. They didn't need to. They were in the presence of the Lord. The "Bridegroom". One doesn't fast at a wedding, on celebrates life.
BUT when the bridegroom is gone, when the Lord is gone, then celebration isn't there, it's a time of sadness.
I hear of people fasting (I've not done it in my life up to this point)... they fast for a specific reason, and then at the end of their fast, they eat in celebration of getting an answer. They've spent time in prayer and mourning with God, seeking answers, asking for help, and God hears them. When they are heard, they celebrate. It's like they were waiting for the bridegroom to appear and now he's here and woot woot!! let's celebrate that fact, let's eat and be joyful.
I have to admit, I don't really get the point of fasting. It's not something I've really come to good understanding of. I don't think it makes a person more holy, as is the general impression I get... I fast ergo I'm better than you (which some Christians imply), or whoa... look at him.. he fasted for a month. It's not supposed to be about that. It's supposed to be about being connected with the bridegroom isn't it? The bridegroom being Christ.
I do think fasting shows a commitment though. It's not an easy thing to do. My sister told me once she needs to fast to remind herself of who is more important. Is it food and stuff, or is it God? Fasting reminds her of this important truth. Others fast because it helps them to focus their prayers better. It reduces the distractions in life. Fasting makes sense to me in that regard, as reducing distractions in life is vital at times.
Tell me, do you fast? If so why?