What are you eating today? That answer might be more important and creative than you think?
One year ago, Trinity, along with our Presiding Bishop and many other Christian communities began a commitment to fast on the 21st of the month in order to draw attention to the concerns of poor people and to the policies that effect them. To learn about the Fast, its origins and Biblical connections, read here: For Such a Time as This
But isn’t fasting purely symbolic? How will my being hungry change anything?
Good questions! My hunger changes nothing but me. Just that change makes fasting more than symbolic, however. You can’t fast and be a spectator at the same time. First, of course, fasting isn’t done in a vacuum. Without an underlying participation in prayer, fasting is just uncomfortable dieting. That being said, here’s the spiritual side of fasting:
- Fasting means participating in hardship. Fasting awakens us to the truth of the privilege we have that allows us to be voluntarily hungry, rather than experiencing hunger as a way of life. Hopefully the experience awakens compassion.
- Fasting is uncomfortable–at least that’s the plan! Discomfort awakens discontent. We might begin to wonder why things have to be this way for some people.
- Discontent then spurs us to action. We can work for a better world because we can imagine a better world.
- Oh, and fasting isn’t done in a vacuum. Without an underlying purpose of prayer, fasting is just uncomfortable dieting. Did I mention that already?
The Presiding Bishop has renewed his invitation to join him in the fast. Watch here for his inspiring words:
As The Rt. Rev. Michael Curry reminds us, fasting doesn’t have to just be about food. We can fast from evil thoughts, from judgment–just recall your Lenten experiences. However we do it, let’s take a break from aloofness.
You may recall a book and movie about spiritual enlightenment entitled, Eat, Pray, Love. The idea was that depth was achieved through exotic and indulgent experiences. New times require a new motto:
Pray, Fast, Act.
The recipe for spiritual growth has changed.