Fasting or Lent - What really counts?

Would you call it fasting if you went to bed in the evening, slept all night and didn't eat anything until the next morning? Is fasting just a temporary state or an attitude? Can you fast if you're not hungry anyway? These questions are essential when we consider the meaning and spiritual significance of fasting.

Romans 14:17-18 - What is really important

Imagine you ate your fill at Christmas. Now you're taking a break - until the cake is served in a few hours. You're practically fasting. Aren't you? Of course not. We instinctively know that fasting means more than just “not eating anything”.

Some say that fasting only begins after 12 hours. But then everyone who sleeps would automatically be fasting. Perhaps it is enough to simply skip a meal? But is it really fasting if I just have no appetite and skip lunch? Hardly.

Fasting is a conscious decision to go without, with a goal. It's not about accidentally skipping a meal or taking a break for health reasons. Fasting means consciously giving up something in order to draw closer to God. It is a decision of the heart, a spiritual orientation.

True spiritual discipline in fasting is not only shown in abstaining from food, but in our actions towards others. It means freeing people from unjust constraints, taking burdens from others and standing up for justice. Those who fast are invited to open their hearts to the needs of their fellow human beings: to feed the hungry, offer a home to the homeless and give clothing and support to those who have nothing. Fasting is not only a personal, but a social and spiritual act of love.

But what if I am not hungry? Is it possible to fast then? Yes, because in the end it is not primarily about eating or self-mortification. Romans 14:17 reminds us: “For the kingdom of God is not food and drink, but righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”

Fasting is therefore much more than a ritual or an outward form. It is an invitation to focus our hearts on God, to seek Him and give Him space. It is a time to let go - not only of food, but also of distractions, worries and everything that weighs our soul down. And it is an opportunity to be a light to others by actively helping, alleviating need and promoting justice.

Next Step: Ask God in prayer what fasting should mean for you. How does He see your heart, your devotion and your desire for Him? Perhaps He is inviting you today to encounter Him in a new way - by not only renouncing, but giving and sharing.