I remember the times I have fasted. They were always life-changing. The key word is “life-changing.” For Christians, change is essential. Becoming more like Christ or having the mind of Christ is not a one-time event. Transformation is a daily process; sometimes, fasting is necessary for certain breakthroughs. Fasting, therefore, can be a threshold that can help us reach the other side. In other words, fasting can help navigate this liminal space.
January is the month many corporate fasts occur among church members. People fast for different reasons. Some fast for healing in their bodies, in their families, or their relationships in general. Some fast for insights or answers. Some fast for spiritual breakthroughs in different areas of their lives physically, mentally, spiritually, and financially.
People do different types of fasts. Some fasts are partial or full, meaning all day. Some fasts are about pushing the plate away. Others may choose to give up something they love, such as coffee, chocolate, or dessert, for a set time. Some give up social media, Netflix, or games. Whether one believes in these variations of fasting, the point is that they open up a space for transformation.
As a Christian transformational coach, we are responsible for creating the space for transformation, but God brings about it. Fasting becomes the liminal space that allows God to make the change within us. Food and other objects that vie for our attention are put on hold in this space, and prayer and meditation become the sole focus.
This liminal space allows us to step into stillness, whether corporately or individually.
How do we use this liminal space?
This liminal space is a space for prayer. When I started fasting, I quickly realized that eating takes up a lot of space. What do I do with all the time I now feel I have? I wondered if I prayed all day.
There are different ways to have a prayerful fast in this liminal space.
Exploring Fasting Practices in the Liminal Space
Poetic Prayers
Penny Powell, a board member of LiveLiving, a poet, and a stretch instructor, uses poetry to guide others into a space of stillness. Her poetry is a type of prayer—a way to communicate with God. In her upcoming book, Rhyming with God: Poetic Prayers & Reflections, her poetry helps us connect with God through the beauty of words. In the liminal spaces, she says, is where God prepares us: “The One who helps us through any test/ And reminds us when to rest/ To be our best / In Him…/ In Liminal Space/ With His Grace/ Preparing for what He calls us to do / Believing He’ll guide us through…”
Breath Prayers
There are also other times when words are just not enough. Suffering can put us in a liminal space, especially when pain is unbearable. The Word of God is living. When we breathe the sacred word of God, we breathe His breath. This fasting space allows God’s Word to resuscitate, breathe life, and heal. Some scriptures that are conducive to this type of prayer are short ones or phrases, such as Be still (Psalm 67), Be anxious for nothing (Philippians 4:12
Journaling
Intention determines the purpose of a thing. If our intention is to draw closer to Christ during fasting, then journaling can help us slow down and hear the Holy Spirit. Writing takes time, and for this reason, it is a perfect tool for reflection. Because fasting facilitates the liminal space, we can use journaling to help us gain insight and growth.
Meditative Movement
Movement should be intentionally slow and purposely. Whether you go for a walk, perform stretching exercises, or incorporate yoga or qigong, you can use your body, the temple of the Holy Spirit, as a part of worship. The emphasis is on slow movement and integrating your spirituality or faith with your body and mind. It is no surprise that several studies have shown evidence that meditative movements can increase the quality of life and reduce symptoms for peri and post-menopausal women. These studies have been in the area of yoga and Qigong. Liturgical dance would also have similar benefits for those who are inclined to dance movements. As an integrative health and wellbeing coach, I recognize the benefits of these types of movements. However, it is up to each individual to explore their intentions or attitudes toward these practices, for integrating our spirituality with our body and mind is still relatively new.
Stillness
Movement helps us feel God’s life within us, while stillness allows us to establish and ground ourselves in God’s presence. There are different types of movements. Our fast-paced world can deplete us, leaving us empty and exhausted. Sometimes, we enter a liminal state, wondering, “What’s next?” We know we need to pause, but how? Fasting, especially corporately, can help us create the space for God to bring about transformation. We hope to be more like Christ in the workplace, home, and church. Fasting helps us to cross this liminal threshold. It gives us the courage to make decisions where we may feel stuck or to take a leap of faith. We train our spiritual ears to hear and connect with Him at the center by connecting with God in the stillness.
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Conclusion
Fasting is a powerful liminal space—a sacred threshold where transformation unfolds. By embracing prayer, meditative movement, and stillness, fasting becomes more than an act of abstinence; it is a journey of renewal. This practice opens the door for God’s grace to work in and through us, enabling profound spiritual growth. Whether individually or in a community, fasting invites us to step closer to God and align our lives with His divine purpose.
