40 Days of Decrease: A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.

40 Days of Decrease: A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.

<p>“What are you giving up for Lent?” we are asked. Our minds begin to whirl: <em>Chocolate? Designer coffee? Social media?</em> Forty days later, some feel disappointed in their efforts (<em>it was a limited-time blend . . . </em>), some feel surprised by their success (<em>didn’t even miss it . . . </em>), but perhaps precious few feel spiritually renewed.</p><p>Can such fasts alone truly prepare us to celebrate Easter? Or any other chosen time of reflection during the year?</p><p>Or could it be that before we can be duly awed by resurrection, we need to daily honor crucifixion?</p><p><em>40 Days of Decrease</em> emphasizes a different type of fast. What if you or your church fasted <em>comparison</em>? What if your family fasted <em>accumulation</em>? What if your office fasted <em>gossip</em>? </p><p><em>40 Days of Decrease</em> guides readers through a study of Jesus’ uncommon and uncomfortable call to abandon the world’s illusions, embrace His kingdom’s reality, and journey cross-ward and beyond.</p><p>Each daily, 1000-word entry will include</p><ul><li>a devotional based on Jesus’ cross-ward life;</li><li>a reflection question to guide journaling or group discussion;</li><li>a fast to inspire a tangible response;</li><li>a thought-provoking Lenten quote;</li><li>a sidebar into the historical development of Lent.</li></ul>