Fasting

Dear St. Alphonsus family,

Let’s reflect on a biblical perspective of Lent. Ash Wednesday and Lent began as a way for Catholics to remind themselves to repent of their sins in a similar manner to how people in the Old Testament repented in sackcloth, ashes, and fasting.

However, over the centuries Lent has developed a much more “sacramental” value. Many Catholics erroneously understand giving something up for Lent as a way to gain blessing from God. The Bible does not teach that such acts in themselves get us closer to God. In fact, the New Testament teaches us that our acts of fasting and repentance should be done in a manner that does not attract attention to ourselves: “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you” (Matthew 6:16-18).

Fasting is a good thing when it is done with a biblical perspective. If you feel led by the Lord to observe Lent, you are free to do so, not forced. Be sure to focus on repenting from your sins and consecrating yourself to God – not on trying to earn God’s favor or increase His love for you!

Fr. Ed Vella, C.Ss.R.