“Do to others whatever you would have them do to you.
This is the law and the prophets.”
It is Lent indeed.
Everywhere I see the notifications about prayer, alms giving, and fasting!
When I refuse a drink or a meal, saying I am abstaining — it is met with weird looks or remarks like “The pope doesnt want us to fast” “No use fasting.”
I think it is a personal choice—some act I want to give my body to surrender to the Lord!
I don’t feel sad but disappointed when I have to justify my choices!
As Indians, food is our love language—we believe in feeding everyone—guests, family, strangers… Often the only and first question asked by parents in Asian and Indian communities is “Did you eat?”
Fasting is also considered a form of religious surrender in all religions—while Ramadan is concurrent with us, so are the Hinduism festivals where they fast from meats and fish on certain days of the week!
Often we think of it as a dietary modification that can have health benefits—but for me, fasting means giving up something that I am used to as usual—good warm meals—esp since I am home! It is to surrender to the Lord the minor discomforts—so I learn to surrender and trust more.
As I pack my bags for a trip across the continents, I do feel a bit of anxiety, but then I know I can surrender it to the Lord and pray for everything, and next time I reflect, I will be in Lisbon, Portugal!
Let us surrender every mistake and mishap and pray to the Lord to help us overcome the emotions we feel!
Have a fruitful Lent, everyone!
AMEN
