Returning, not performing: My friend and colleague Stacy MacLaren says, “And here’s the point: the fast is not the goal. The fast is simply space-making. It’s a way of loosening our grip so God can have more room. And if the practice makes you meaner, prouder, sharper, or more self-righteous…that is not the Spirit of Jesus. A Lent that doesn’t move us toward love is not the Lent God is inviting us into.
How to fast: Cassie Achermann concludes, “Start with just one meal. Use that usual mealtime to pray, and let the hunger teach you about your need for God. Do it on your own, or invite a few friends to join you in praying for a mutual need or concern. Call out to God, asking him to use this practice to bring you to prayer. And see how he works.”
Beware the ‘current events’ man: Chris Martin explains, “A current-events man is that relative on Facebook constantly posting about the latest news coming out of the Oval Office. It’s the co-worker who was an expert on public health in 2020 and has insights on immigration policy and enforcement this week. It’s the pastor who can’t help but hook every sermon to a headline.”
What can pro-lifers do in unchurched states? Daniel Williams answers, “Pro-lifers can still win modest victories and save lives by focusing their efforts on the one area where they have a chance of success—restrictions in abortion funding.”
America’s healthiest (and least healthy) states: New England showing out here… and the southeast paying for her delicious, but unhealthy cuisine.

Photo by Ahna Ziegler on Unsplash