DAY 2: JAN. 10, 2012 Daniel's Fast Day 2

Devotional:  Joel 1: 14

"Declare a holy fast; call a sacred assembly.  Summon the elders and all who live in the land to the house of the Lord your God, and cry out to the Lord."

Fasting was required on the Day of Atonement and also practiced in times of calamity.  It was also a sign of penitence & humility.

What are you reasons for participating in the fast this year? What is your prayer focus (cry out to the Lord) while on the fast? Various reasons & prayer focuses but your obedience and sacrifice will prove the call to fast and bring results and spiritual growth.  Look to God instead of food.  The reason for this fast is bring our heart & spirits closer to the Lord.

Recipe of the day:   Sweet Potato Gratin With Pecan Topping

DO AHEAD: Prepare recipe through step 2, and chill the mashed sweet potatoes up to 2 days in advance.   NUTRITION (per serving): 230 cal; 5 g pro; 39 g carb; 6 g fiber; 7 g fat; 2.5 g sat fat; 98 mg sodium

PREP TIME 15 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 1/2 hours SERVINGS 8

3 lb sweet potatoes
2 Tbsp soy (butter) spread available at Sprouts Market
1 1/2 tsp finely grated orange zest
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 Tbsp fresh orange juice
1 Tbsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp ground allspice
1/3 c pecan halves, coarsely chopped
1/4 c chopped scallion greens

1. Heat oven to 400°F with rack in center position. Prick potatoes several times with fork and wrap each in foil.

2. Roast potatoes until very tender, about 45 minutes. Carefully unwrap foil and halve potatoes. Scoop flesh into bowl. Mash potatoes with butter, zest, juices, garlic, allspice, and sea salt to taste.

3. Reduce heat to 375°F and grease a 1 qt shallow glass pie plate or ceramic baking dish. Spoon potatoes into dish and top with pecans & scallion greens. Bake until potato mixture is hot, about 30 minutes.