Fasting
Fasting. It’s not as common today in the Christian practice as it had been. Some may say that it isn’t up with the times anymore. Others would say it’s because of spiritual laxity. I opt for the latter. Some would say it goes against Biblical teaching as they quote 1 Timothy 4:3. In response to the issues of fasting, I think we best consider that Christ not only mentioned fasting is a tool, but how to use this tool in Matthew 6:16-18, which indicates that we ought to use it since we were instructed in conduct.
Matthew 6:16-18 reads, “”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 men 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.” The first three words, “When you fast” not “if you fast”. Christ is prepping us for when our time comes to fast. Jesus isn’t speaking of fasting due to famines or poverty, but personal choice or spiritual calling. It is not because there are foods that we are to forego (Mark 7:19; 1 Timothy 4:4-5). It is because we are to serve our Lord and be pleasing unto Him. Jesus in His beatitude said that those who are meek – meaning able to do something but will not unless ordered – will inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5). Jesus calls for discipline. This isn’t only spiritual discipline but discipline of the body, which may be indistinguishable.
- Image via Wikipedia
Not only is fasting nourishment of the soul and body but it is a preemptive strike against the devil that helps to fortify us from sinning (Mark 9:27-28).
Those who prepared for ministry fasted. The first person we see to fast for a good length of time – forty days to be exact – is Moses. After Moses fasted forty days on Mount Sinai, he received from God the tools of his ministry, the Ten Commandments.
Next to fast was Daniel who forwent choice foods for three weeks as a testimonial of his faith (Daniel 10:3).
Lastly, we see Christ who fasted for forty days. This was the launch of His three year itinerant ministry. How interesting that for these three men – Moses, Daniel, Jesus – their ministries began after fasting. It was a preparation and renewal of spirit. Invigorated and nourished by prayer and not food, man was given the tools to succeed in his pontiff.
Lent is a replication of Christian fasting. Lent is given to us to utilize so that we may mirror Christ’s life and actions by foregoing indulgences as Christ had in the desert for forty days.
Remember, even Christ’s followers were to fast once He had ascended (Matthew 9:15).
For an insight on the practicality of everyday fasting (which isn’t always culinary), please read article Fast to Give.
Your’s,
Drew Castel
[...] to a fitting close as he presents a great reminder of the benefits of the spiritual discipline of Fasting at Catholic [...]