Today’s readings remind us that in the pursuit of Christian perfection, we neglect fasting at our peril. Admittedly, we need to remember that fasting is only ever a means to an end. One could think here of a Manichean or Gnostic approach which views the body as evil and enjoins fasting as a method for subjugating man’s tainted physicality. This is not the Christian vision! However, fasting does remain a vitally important means of sacrificing legitimate bodily goods for the sake of some higher good. Fasting is the recognition that because of the Fall, our desires have become disordered, and oftentimes our lower appetites (desires for food, sex, sleep, and so on) are no longer subject to reason. As such, fasting, together with prayer, is a powerful spiritual weapon in fighting our sinful inclinations and reordering our hearts toward God. Waging spiritual warfare with prayer only, absent fasting, is like trying to train for a marathon without bothering to eat well. Indeed, from a biblical perspective, prayer devoid of sacrifice is stunted, and in tackling more deep-seated vices, it risks becoming impotent. Recall the words of Christ: “And he said to them, ‘This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer and fasting’” (Mark 9:29). The Gospel today reminds us that in these days when the bridegroom has returned to the Father, fasting is our Christian obligation. This Friday let us recommit ourselves to this ancient practice, remembering that the ultimate sacrifice which the Lord desires of us is a contrite spirit and a humble heart. All our prayers, fasting, and witness should flow from this.

What concrete steps can I take to make fasting a regular part of my Christian life?

By Clement Harrold