A Lenten Fast of the Spirit
“And whenever you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” – Matthew 6:16-18
Have you ever fasted as a spiritual practice? Many of us have been required to fast before a blood test or a medical procedure, to ensure accuracy or as a safety precaution, but that’s often our only experience with intentionally not eating. Historically, fasting or other forms of self-denial have been a physical means by which a person makes a sacrifice of a specific nature in an effort to please God or to feel closer to God.
The Gospel of Matthew brings together a large number of of Jesus’ teachings, clustered under the event known as The Sermon on the Mount. The Beatitudes and the Lord’s Prayer are in these chapters, and then we find instructions on religious practices. Jesus reiterates the principle of keeping one’s prayer life, charitable giving, and fasting a personal, private activity between the individual and God.
A new approach to the Lenten fast, written by Pope Francis, has been circulating recently, and it’s not difficult to see why these thoughtful ideas resonate with many people. As a way to expand or broaden our appreciation of these thoughts, consider using another phrase such as “Let go of . . .” or “Refrain from . . .” What words would you use to express “fasting from”?
FAST FROM . . .
hurting words and say kind words.
sadness and be filled with gratitude.
anger and be filled with patience
pessimism and be filled with hope.
worries and have trust in God.
complaints and contemplate simplicity.
pressures and be prayerful.
bitterness and fill your hearts with joy
selfishness and be compassionate to others.
grudges and be reconciled.
words and be silent so you can listen.
How strong and healthy our spirits will be if we can let go of hurting words, sadness, anger, pessimism, worries, complaints, pressures, bitterness, selfishness, grudges and words. Every negative is replaced with a positive, and adopting these behaviors can be life-changing, not only for us as individuals and those close to us, but on the world scale as well.
Our habits and emotions have genuine strength and power, so it’s one thing to talk about making such a great turn-around, but doing it is a challenge not to be taken lightly. This is the point, then, at which we fast from or let go of our words and be silent, and listen, because what we’ll hear is God’s assurance of his boundless love and care for us, his ransomed and redeemed children.
Your friend on the Lenten journey,
Mary Rogers