Choosing Your Fast - Part 2/2

We are now just two days away from the official start of our Lent pilgrimage.

By tomorrow, Tuesday, each of us should have clarity on what we will be fasting from during this journey.

I want to offer some additional insights, as our fast may be different from what some of you are accustomed to.

This is not necessarily about abstaining from food or pushing yourself to accomplish things you’ve struggled to find motivation for. Rather, this fast is about deepening your relationship with God.

To discern what you should fast from, ask yourself:

What do I rely on more than I rely on God?

If food is your primary source of comfort instead of God, then yes, fasting from food may be the right path. But if you’re choosing to fast from food simply to lose weight or improve your health, that is not the focus of this particular fast.

Perhaps for you, it’s not food but endless scrolling on Instagram, watching Netflix, or constantly checking messages, a way to fill emptiness or seek a quick dopamine spike instead of turning to the true source of joy, God. Maybe it’s the habit of overworking, always staying busy to avoid silence and stillness, rather than sitting with God in prayer. Or it could be seeking validation from others instead of grounding yourself in God’s love. 

The heart of this Lenten journey is identifying what stands in the way of your deeper connection with the Divine.

You are invited to fast from what holds you captive, whatever numbs, distracts, or controls you, so that you can make space for what truly nourishes your soul. This fast is not merely about physical deprivation; it is about realigning our hearts, habits, and desires toward God.

So, I invite you to reflect on your chosen fast in light of these questions:

1. What do I rely on more than I rely on God?

2. What do I need to relinquish in order to be more fully present to God?

Take a moment to sit with these questions and re-read Part 1 for further insights.

• Explore more: Fasting from Hatred and Anger

  Click: Fasting from Hatred and Anger | Homilies with Richard Rohr | CAC Podcasts

• Explore more: All Must Be Tested in Regard to Their Use of Power

  Click: All Must Be Tested in Regard to Their Use of Power | Homilies with Richard Rohr | CAC Podcasts