Resurrection to Mission: Living the Ancient FaithSample

Day 7: The Apostles’ Fast: The Mission Continues

Why does the Church fast after Pentecost? The Apostles’ Fast, unique to the Coptic Orthodox Church, is not a time of mourning but preparation and empowerment. After receiving the Holy Spirit, the apostles didn’t rest…they immediately went out to preach, serve, and suffer for the Gospel.

“As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’” (Acts 13:2 NKJV)

Fasting and mission are inseparable, and fasting holds a crucial and intrinsic link to the work of mission. Throughout the early Church, and exemplified by the apostles themselves as they fasted before major decisions and sought the Spirit’s guidance, the practice of fasting was not merely an act of personal piety but a vital discipline undertaken before embarking on significant decisions and missionary endeavors.

This deliberate self-denial and spiritual focus served as a means of seeking the direct guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. By setting aside worldly distractions and physical needs, the apostles created space for deeper communion with God, allowing them to discern His will and receive the necessary spiritual strength for the challenges inherent in spreading the Gospel. This historical precedent underscores the enduring importance of fasting as a spiritual tool for those engaged in mission today, reminding us that effective outreach is not solely reliant on human effort but fundamentally dependent on divine direction and the empowering presence of the Spirit.

St. Basil the Great in his Homily on Fasting reminds us that: “Fasting gives birth to prophets, strengthens the powerful, and is a weapon for the valiant.”

Fasting isn’t merely abstaining from food but rather it’s making space for God, refining our spirits for mission. Throughout Scripture, God’s presence is holy and powerful...so much so that to approach Him without purification is dangerous. The Apostles’ Fast is our time of preparation and purification, asking the Holy Spirit to cleanse us, so that we can become true temples of His presence, living out His mission in the world. Further, the Apostles’ Fast invites us to join the apostles’ labor, opening ourselves to the Spirit’s leading. It’s a time to renew our commitment to the Gospel, prepare and purify our hearts for service, and become vessels of God’s love in the world.

Reflection: How can your fasting this season prepare you for mission? What is God calling you to do or change?

Today’s Challenge: Choose one day this week to fast from a meal, a habit, or a comfort. Use that time to pray for God to prepare your heart for mission and to show you someone to serve.

Prayer: Lord, as I fast, prepare my heart and strengthen me for Your mission. Give me courage, wisdom, and boldness to serve You. Use this season to purify my heart, make me valiant in faith, and prepare me to serve others with love and courage. Amen.

Let’s pray for courage, wisdom, and boldness to continue the mission of the apostles in our time.