Holy Father Pope Francis while addressing the faithful gathered at Casa Santa Marta for the Holy Mass, reminded the faithful to give up something for Lent only if it demonstrates compassion and enriches others. His Holiness Pope Francis highlighted that when fasting, a true Christian must be consistent, not putting himself on show and never despising others or engaging in quarrels or disagreements.
As reported by Vatican Radio, Holy Father Pope Francis remarked that “Fasting is one of the tasks of Lent and if you cannot commit to a total fast, the kind that makes you feels hunger in your bones, you can still fast humbly and consistently. Fasting is a little like stripping oneself of pride. To thank the Lord and at the same time despise your laborers that are forced to fast because they do not have enough to eat if inconsistent and unchristian.” Further, His Holiness invited the faithful to fast in order to help others, but with a smile.
His Holiness warned against the temptation of ‘showing off’ by fasting and concluded his homily by reflecting that “If I am unable to do something, I will not do it. I will do only what I can with the consistency of a true Christian.”
