Church to end fast, just in time for Super Bowl

Members of ThatChurch.com in Sherwood will end a 21-day fast on Sunday, just in time for their Super Bowl party. The annual fast has been done for about four years as a way to draw closer to God, said Scott Harness, senior pastor.

"People fast for different reasons. Some are fasting for an answer or a breakthrough. The church, what we do, is use it as a way to set the tone for the year," Harness said. "It's really been life-changing for us."

The 21-day fast, which began Jan. 12, is known as a Daniel Fast. It's not an absolute fast with no food, but it does restrict what fasters can eat. There's no bread, no meat, nothing with preservatives, no caffeine. The daily menu consists mostly of fruits and vegetables.

"It really is a challenge," Harness said. "You don't realize how much of what you do surrounds food. ... It challenges you in a lot of ways physically and you have to turn to the Lord for strength to press through."

Harness said those who wish to participate do so and have access to resources on the church website. He encourages them to pray and depend on God when hunger pains hit or when they are struggling. Some only fast a week, while others fast the entire 21 days.

How long they fast isn't what's important, Harness said. It's not about food, after all. It's about their relationship with God.

"It's a pretty distracting world we live in, so having something that keeps your focus on prayer is good," Harness said.

Harness said the first few days are always difficult, but he feels energized by the fast. It's not a spiritual practice he grew up with.

"Once I started practicing it, it increased my sensitivity to be able to listen to God and communicate with God," Harness said. "It's a very unique practice."

Religion on 01/31/2015

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