Day 5

Fasting is know as a "secret act of devotion" to God.  How do we deal with that as a declared "church fast"?
Well, obviously we know the entire congregation has been "invited" into this (annual) fast.  We will gain support as as community of believers are venturing into this together.  Use this opportunity to encourage others you know who are fasting also.   Many fasts in the Bible were corporate fasts called by authority figures for a whole group to participate in together.  Reflect on the heart of what Jesus is saying in this passage.  What has been the motive behind any conversations you've had about fasting?  Is it to encourage others or receive support?  Is there some secret wish to be seen as holy or spiritual? Only two know the answer to these questions--you & God!  Pray today asking God to uncover your motives for fasting and ask for ways you can seek the encouragement you need without clouding your heart with pride.


SCRIPTURE FOCUS:  Matthew 6: 5-18


Tortillas as "Daniel Approved" if you READ THE LABEL.  Look for whole wheat and as little as possible of "extra" ingredients; i.e.: no lard.  If you are considering purchasing spinach or tomatoe tortilla READ THE PACKAGE LABEL making sure that white flour or wheat flour is listed as an ingredient.  THERE IS A HUGE DIFFERENCE IN WHEAT FLOUR (which simply put is white (processed/refined) flour made from wheat rather than corn, rice...etc. and WHOLE WHEAT FLOUR is exactly that-flour made from the whole wheat.  Corn Tortillas are made with corn and are perfectly acceptable. 
When in doubt--make your own using the recipe below!

Whole Grain Tortillas

2 1/2 cups whole grain flour (brown rice, spelt, whole wheat, etc.)
2 TB flaxseed meal, optional
1 tsp salt
1 cup warm water

Instructions
Mix flour, flaxseed meal, salt, and water in a food processor until dough forms a ball. Turn dough onto a floured work surface, and knead for 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Let dough rest at least 30 minutes.

Divide dough into 8 equal pieces, and roll each piece into an 8-inch circle to ¼” thickness. Place in a skillet over low heat. Cook tortilla for 1 minute. Flip, and cook 2-3 minutes on second side or until flatbread bubbles up. Repeat for remaining tortillas. Makes 8 tortillas.

Recipe Notes

• When using spelt, add another ½ cup flour.
• Spread tortilla with Hummus or organic salsa, and stuff with beans, rice, and/or vegetables.