Matthew 26:27-30 (NIV)
27 Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you.
28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.
29 I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father's kingdom."
30 When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
Did Jesus ever fast? This is a rather good question since we encourage you to fast. If Jesus never fasted in the Scripture then we would be amiss to expect that of our members. But once again as always the Scriptures answer this question for us. In Matthew 4 when he was in the wilderness for forty days, he fasted. He did not go into the wilderness specifically to fast but he became so caught up in being with his Father that he completely forgot about food or drink.
When faced with the temptation of the devil he made quick mincemeat of him because of his love for his Father that had empowered him to defeat the enemy.
But there is one more fast that most who read the Bible never see. There is the fast that he began when he ascended into heaven. Take a close look at verse 29. Jesus has given up on drinking wine until he comes for his church. He is even now p[raying and fasting for us as he intercedes for us. Yes fasting is something the Lord is doing even now as he waits for the consummation of the kingdom of God.
He also gave us this commandment in the gospels, “When the bridegroom is taken away from the bride she will fast. Do you find yourself so in love with Christ that you long for his return even more than yesterday. It is not that you want an easy out but you find your heart beating so for him that you can hardly wait to see him when he breaks through the clouds to come for you.
Let us draw close to Christ through prayer and fasting so we may be ready when he comes for us. May our hearts grow with anticipation of his return each day that he delays.
May it be today,