This is more "pastoral" than apologetic or exegetical in theme, but I thought I would share the following.
As a migraine sufferer, one of my "triggers" is fasting, so I can rarely engage in a full fast, and I know others who, for various medical reasons, can't fast (or too often), one would appreciate that, in the September 2008 issue of the New Era, the following question is posed:
I have a medical condition that keeps me from fasting, but I still want fast Sunday to be special. How can I bring the Spirit closer to me on fast Sundays?
Part of the answer reads, in part:
It’s true that some people have different needs when it comes to fasting. But there are things you can do to make fast Sunday special even if you can’t go without food.
An important part of fasting is prayer with a purpose. Even though your medical situation means it would be unwise for you to go without food or drink, you can still focus on someone or something in particular to pray about throughout the day. You can focus on seeking inspiration in dealing with a specific situation, a desire to understand a gospel principle more fully, or expressing gratitude for your blessings. You can also commit to spending more time with the scriptures and in personal prayer and reflection.
Another way to bring the Spirit closer is to serve. Pause to help and lift someone. Consider donating additional money to fast offerings.
“Fasting embodies a principle of sacrifice—that of denying oneself something so that he or she can become a more spiritual individual. Perhaps one could sacrifice something other than food or drink in order to accomplish this goal. One might abstain from television, movies, or sleeping in” (Malcolm S. Jeppsen, “I Have a Question,” Ensign, Apr. 1979, 25).
If you invite the Spirit into your heart through your thoughts and actions, fast Sundays can be a special day to draw closer to the Lord through prayer and sacrifice. (Link)
