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The season of Lent is meant to be a time of reflection, repentance and renewal before Easter. For many, it’s associated with fasting from certain foods and earthly delights.
However, Pope Francis recently shared some beautiful insights on other meaningful ways to fast this Lent that go past giving up earthly indulgences and help develop us in a way that leads to spiritual growth.
He presents us with this simple question to ask ourselves, “Do You Want To Fast This Lent?”, and then he offers us this food for thought to contemplate and to implement in our daily lives.
He offers us these alternatives suggestions for fasting:
“Do You Want To Fast This Lent?”
Fast from hurting words and say kind words.
How often do we lash out in anger or judge others harshly? This Lent, consider fasting from any speech that could hurt another. Choose to respond with gentleness and compassion instead.
“Do You Want To Fast This Lent?”
Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude.
When we fixate on the negative, our lives become gloomy. Make a commitment to push aside discontentment and thank God for the many blessings in your life.
“Do You Want To Fast This Lent?”
Fast from anger and be filled with patience.
Rather than allow frustration to overtake you, be intentional about cultivating patience with others—and yourself. Breathe deep and pray when you feel your temper start to rise.
“Do You Want To Fast This Lent?”
Fast from pessimism and be filled with hope.
No matter how difficult your circumstances, maintain the attitude that things can improve. Have faith that God will see you through challenges.
“Do You Want To Fast This Lent?”
Fast from worries and have trust in God.
When we feel ourselves spinning into fear and doubt, surrender your concerns to the Lord through prayer. Let go of trying to control everything.
“Do You Want To Fast This Lent?”
Fast from complaints and contemplate simplicity.
Instead of getting caught up in desires for more, be content with enough. Find joy in the little blessings of each day.
“Do You Want To Fast This Lent?”
Fast from pressures and be prayerful.
Make time for prayer. Lent is the perfect occasion to unplug from busyness and create quiet space to connect with God.
“Do You Want To Fast This Lent?”
Fast from bitterness and fill your hearts with joy.
Let go of grudges, resentment and negativity. Choose forgiveness and faith in God’s goodness.
“Do You Want To Fast This Lent?”
Fast from selfishness and be compassionate to others.
Become more compassionate toward others, especially those in need. Look for small ways you can serve or sacrifice for the good of someone else.
“Do You Want To Fast This Lent?”
Fast from grudges and be reconciled.
Are there broken relationships you need to mend? Seek to be understanding and extend a merciful hand.
“Do You Want To Fast This Lent?”
Fast from words and be silent so you can listen.
So often we are too busy talking to truly hear others or the soft voice of God. This Lent, consider adding more reflective silence to your days. As you fast from excessive words, open your ears and mind to listen and understand more deeply.
The Pope’s ideas show us that fasting during Lent is about far more than food. It’s about clearing away the distractions, negativity and clutter from our hearts to make more room for God’s love and grace. By implementing even a few of these suggestions, we can grow closer to Jesus leading up to Easter.
This Lent, simplify your life and purify your heart through little acts of fasting like letting go of bitterness, offering forgiveness, spending time in silence, and serving others in love.
As Pope Francis said, open your hearts in compassion. These purposeful spiritual disciplines will bless you far more than abstaining from chocolate or popcorn ever could.
We invite you to join us in a prayer for God’s blessing over this Lenten season. Click the link below entitled, “A Prayer For Lent”, or visit our YouTube channel or website for the prayer.
May God bless your spiritual journey this Lenten season!
