The season of the Great Fast approaches, and with it, the Church calls us to repentance, prayer, and ascetic labour. Fasting is not an optional devotion, nor is it a tradition of human invention. It is a commandment from God, given for our salvation. The Lord Himself fasted forty days in the wilderness, not because He needed purification, but to show us the path we must follow. If Christ fasted, how can we, who are weak and full of sin, neglect it? Yet, fasting is more than abstaining from food. The Prophet Isaiah warns against an empty fast, saying: “Is such the fast that I choose, a day to humble oneself? Is it to bow down the head like a bulrush, and to lie in sackcloth and ashes? Will you call this a fast, a day acceptable to the Lord?” (Isaiah 58:5)
The true fast is a breaking of chains—the chains of sin, self-indulgence, and pride. It is a time to seek reconciliation with God and neighbour.
1. The Fast begins with forgiveness. If we carry grudges, if we refuse to humble ourselves and ask for pardon, our fasting is in vain. The Lord says: “If you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you; but if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:14-15) Go to confession. Do not delay. Confess your sins, not as a formality, but with true contrition. Let the Fast be a time of cleansing, a time when we cast away the passions that enslave us.
2. Fasting without prayer is a diet. Prayer without almsgiving is self-deception. The Fast calls us to deepen our communion with God and to show mercy to others. The Apostle St. Paul writes: “Pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18). Increase your prayers. Attend the services. Read the Psalms. Pray the Jesus Prayer constantly: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” Give to the poor. Visit the sick. Care for the suffering. What we deny ourselves in food, let us give to those in need.
3. Observe watchfulness against the Devil. The enemy will tempt you in this season. He will tell you that fasting is useless, that it is only external, that it is a burden too heavy to bear. He will stir up irritability, impatience, and discouragement. Be vigilant. The Apostle St. Peter warns us: “Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8) Do not be deceived. Fast with faith, and the Lord will strengthen you. He has given us this sacred time for our salvation. Let us not squander it with negligence. (See Guidelines for Those Who Cannot Fast Strictly)
Brethren, the Great Fast is not a season of sorrow, but a time of healing. It is a journey to Pascha, to the joy of the Resurrection. But there is no resurrection without the Cross. Let us take up our crosses with courage. Let us fast, pray, and repent with sincerity. And when the bright feast of Pascha dawns, may we be found worthy to enter into the joy of the Lord.
To Him be the glory, now and ever, and unto ages of ages. Amen.
May God bless you +
Fr. Charles
1 March 2025
