Lent is upon us!

This season of 40 days is a time for us to reflect on our sinfulness and prepare for the celebration of the Sacred Triduum, the “three days” during which Our Lord suffered, died, and rose again to overcome that very sinfulness.

During Lent, the Church recommends three disciplines to help us grow in holiness and hopefully overcome some of our sinful behavior.  One is prayer (always a good idea).  Another is almsgiving, which means parting with some of our material wealth in order to help those less fortunate than we.  The third is fasting, which we traditionally associate with “giving up” something.  To go without something that is a legitimate pleasure and that we normally enjoy is a good way to grow if, and only if, we do it properly.

Saints throughout the years have spoken about the value of fasting.  Saint Augustine said, “Fasting cleanses the soul, raises the mind, subjects one’s flesh to the spirit, renders the heart contrite and humble, scatters the clouds of concupiscence, quenches the fire of lust, and kindles the true light of chastity.”  Saint John Chrysostom put it simply, “Fasting is a medicine.”  And Fulton Sheen, the great Bishop of the 20th century, said, “Fasting detaches you from this world. Prayer reattaches you to the next world.”

Fasting has always been an important part of the Christian life.  Unfortunately, our modern world has adapted and changed the nature of fasting to make its purpose about ourselves.

What does it mean to fast properly?  It can include several things:

First, Jesus tells us that we should not be vocal about our fasting.  To “show off” what we are doing will nullify the grace that we can receive.

Next, be reasonable and faithful.  That means don’t promise more than you can deliver.  Our Lord accepts any sacrifice we make.  To try and do too much often results in our falling apart and doing nothing.  To promise something that causes a bit of suffering but is possible to carry out will bear fruit.  If you are new to fasting, start small.

Lastly, a true key to successful fasting is to have a purpose.  Is there someone you would like to return to the practice of their faith?  Is there a special intention that you have?  Is there someone who could use physical or spiritual healing? Is someone you know struggling online?  When you fast, ask the Lord to send any grace you receive to that person or that situation.  Not only does it keep our minds on others, but having a purpose also gives us an extra push to continue our sacrifice.

Fasting has always been an important part of the Christian life.  Unfortunately, our modern world has adapted and changed the nature of fasting to make its purpose about ourselves.  It is a way to lose weight or to get in shape, not to move us spiritually.  As we prepare ourselves for Lent, may we give real thought to what we might sacrifice and who or what we might offer it for.  If you want to grow in holiness and potentially help those you love, THINK FAST!

In Christ’s mercy,
Fr. T ( a friend of Integrity Restored)