Day 3 of Lent – Friday March 7th 2025
Ezra 8: 21-23 There, by the Ahava Canal, I proclaimed a fast, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask him for a safe journey for us and our children, with all our possessions. 22 I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to protect us from enemies on the road, because we had told the king, “The gracious hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him, but his great anger is against all who forsake him.” 23 So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer.
Joel 2: 12 “Even now,” declares the Lord, return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.”
Matthew 4: 1-4 Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. 2 After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3 The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” 4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
Day 3 Reflection – Fasting with Purpose
As we journey into the third day of Lent, take a moment to reflect on the practice of fasting. Fasting is not merely an act of abstaining from food or particular habits; it is a profound spiritual discipline that invites us to make room for God in our lives. By letting go of earthly comforts, we create space in our hearts for prayer, repentance, and renewal.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, as I begin this time of fasting during Lent, I come before You with a humble heart. Help me to draw closer to You, to seek Your will, and to grow in faith and love. Strengthen me to resist temptation and to focus on prayer, reflection, and acts of kindness. Let this time of fasting renew my spirit and deepen my relationship with You. May it remind me of the sacrifice of Your Son, Jesus Christ, and inspire me to live a life that honors You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.