Lent season has officially begun on Wednesday and campaigns have begun to encourage people to do something great for the season rather than give something up or do fasting. However, it is very common that Christians deny something on this season, especially food.
Why do they fast and what is its significance to the season?
1. Jesus himself talks about fasting.
In Matthew 6:16, Jesus said: 'When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others...'
In this statement, Jesus stresses that fasting should be done in secret as it is between you and God. He does not clearly explain what fasting is all about or what is its importance, only assuming that people will fast. One can say that it is a form of spiritual discipline cited in the Bible.
2. We follow in Jesus' footsteps
Jesus himself fasted for 40 days (Matthew 4:2, Luke 4:2). The 40 days of Lent are a way of identifying ourselves with him during the days leading up to his crucifixion and resurrection. Denying ourselves a favourite food or some other luxury is a sign we are walking with him to the cross and feeling everything he has felt throughout these days.
3. Fasting is a form of offering
When we deny ourselves something we enjoy, and which it isn't wrong to want, we are saying there is something more important in our lives than pleasure or items. If we fast because we're dieting for our health, it's because how we feel and look is more important. Fasting in Lent means that God is more important than worldly possessions.
4. It's a spiritual discipline
When we fast, we are exercising our spiritual muscles and also ensure we prove that we can control what we want or need. If we can deny ourselves food, we can learn to deny ourselves other things too, which may be much more harmful or morally questionable.
5. It reminds us of God
Many of us get through the day without thinking much about God. But knowing we have to be alert and in control of our instincts, having to fight the temptation to indulge in something we enjoy, reminds us of our discipleship and God's presence throughout our life.
