The Slippery Slope

Being a part of a family puts an extra squeeze on the whole experience of fasting.  How does one who gathers with family at the table continue to engage in a spiritual fast without coming across as one whom Jesus described in that Sermon on the Mount teaching?  "And whenever you fast, do not look dismal...so as to show others that they are fasting." (Matthew 6:16).  It is not an easy thing to fast within family life without calling such attention to yourself that it looks like a definition of self-righteousness.    

Not showing up at family gathering moments does not seem to be the answer.  Our families are important.  Our presence with those with whom we share share such a special relationship is important and too many harmful things end up getting done in the name of religion without letting our empty plate on the table be one of them.  Sometimes we may have to simply say that a spiritual discipline which has both private and public ramifications may not be the right thing for a particular season of our life.  While this may sound like a bad compromise to some, it is always important to be sure that we do not bruise the soul of another by our intentions to nurture our own.    

The slippery slope is obvious.  Do we justify not attending worship in the same way if one member of our home objects to attending?  Do we make sure no one is watching when we pull our Bible off the shelf?  Do we allow someone's objections to keep us from sharing and expressing our faith in the public arena?  Even as we declare that the answer is "No," we also want to affirm with sensitivity our care for another.  Even as we seek to nurture our own soul, we must be sure we do not throw another soul into deep waters with a millstone around their neck.