What's the Point of Fasting During Lent?

[@josephmellott8113]

This is why I do a forty day water fast during lent, last year and this year. I'm on the thirty day tomorrow, so keep me in prayers, everyone.

[@ricardoroberto1731]

you do a 40 day water fast? like... no food and water only for 40 days ????? i dont see how that is possible

[@josephmellott8113]

@ricardoroberto1731 I've done it, and it's possible. I do every 7th day use a water mixture with different vitamins and minerals when I attempted it so I don't get a heart attack, but it is possible.

[@cpmcell1]

@@ricardoroberto1731the blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich lived only on the Eucharist. I learned recently that that was even a thing. There are many others in the faith who also did that.

[@amandaprewitt949]

Can you tell me about this?

[@josephmellott8113]

@@amandaprewitt949 of course. Where would you like to chat more on this?

[@hannahbenningfield6045]

Father Mike, with your podcasts and videos you walked me on my return jouney back to the Church and back to God. Bless you and your gift . You lift us up and tward his light and love.

[@robeyreddzz4568]

why do you call him father?

[@kath.9505]

I agree Hanna, Father Mike has helped me a ton on my journey back to God and the Catholic faith.

[@adventureswithwhitney5219]

I have not given anything up. Instead I added bible study and daily rosary.

[@weedko137]

But you have. :-) You've given up time as an offering to the Lord to partake in activities that honor Him! God bless your endeavors.

[@narrowisthewaytoeternity]

What is the meaning of Lent? Lent is a period of fasting, moderation, and self-denial traditionally observed by Catholics and some Protestant denominations. It begins with Ash Wednesday and ends with Easter Sunday. The length of the Lenten fast was established in the 4th century as 46 days (40 days, not counting Sundays). During Lent, participants eat sparingly or give up a particular food or habit. It’s not uncommon for people to give up smoking during Lent, or to swear off watching television or eating candy or telling lies. It’s six weeks of self-discipline. Lent began as a way for Catholics to remind themselves of the value of repentance. The austerity of the Lenten season was seen as similar to how people in the Old Testament fasted and repented in sackcloth and ashes (Esther 4:1-3; Jeremiah 6:26; Daniel 9:3). However, over the centuries Lenten observances have developed a much more 'sacramental' value. Many Catholics believe that giving something up for Lent is a way to attain God’s blessing. But the Bible teaches that grace cannot be earned; grace is “the gift of righteousness” (Romans 5:17). Also, Jesus taught that fasting should be done discreetly: “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen” (Matthew 6:16-18). Jesus’ command to “wash your face” seems to conflict with the practice of rubbing ashes on one’s face on Ash Wednesday. Fasting can be a good thing, and God is pleased when we repent of sinful habits. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with setting aside some time to focus on Jesus' death and resurrection. However, repenting of sin is something we should be doing every day of the year, not just for the 46 days of Lent. If a Christian wishes to observe Lent, he is free to do so. The key is to focus on repenting of sin and consecrating oneself to God. Lent should not be a time of boasting of one’s sacrifice or trying to earn God's favor or increasing His love. God’s love for us could not be any greater than it already is.

[@lapacker]

I second what Vid said. I gave up alcohol and social media because I want to set good habits of moderation - but, I also added daily Bible study, prayer and rosary. So far, I'm doing well with it. I want it to become second nature for me. So, there's nothing wrong with adding some things and giving some things up, right?

[@husq48]

I have also picked up the daily rosary, this is a habit I want to have going forward.

[@wadejeremy7140]

Not sure if you guys cares but if you're bored like me atm then you can stream all of the latest series on instaflixxer. Have been watching with my girlfriend these days xD

[@sapphirestoker5555]

Father Mike no matter what I'm personally going through in any given time, YOU light up my life!!! You're so AWESOME. Thank you for being So *Marvellously* You. UK 🙏❤️

[@mrsyvette79]

Hello Father Mike, first off I really really enjoy your channel. I often share your advice with my non Christian friends. I then mention you and you & your KZbin channel. I stubbled across your channel by accident. My family and I have always been Catholic but we were cafeteria Catholics. So I'm familiar with Christmas and Easter, Good Friday and so on ......... But never knew the real meaning of any of it. I just went through the motions. Now I'm married with my own family I decided (through difficult circumstances) that we need faith in our lives. My husband and I (mostly me) despite being married for almost 20 years decided to receive our sacrament of marriage. I attended RCIA with my son we were confirmed in June and my husband and I received our sacrament of marriage in September. I now volunteer as a Catechist teacher and preparing 2nd graders for the 1st Holy Communion. I'm always watching your channel. More often then not have answered questions that I was discerning. And through you I've had those ah-ha moments. So thank you Father Mike for being a path to our faith. P.S. a lot of my non Christian friends didn't know priest can be funny. Keep up the awesome work. You ROCK!!! #ProudToBeCatholic

[@billsd13]

You really help me remember God loves me completely and so deserves my all. Sometimes this can hurt because I give so little. Thank you for reminding me what an amazing all-loving God we have. God bless you Father Mike.

[@ellyallthingsfiber4275]

I needed to read that at this moment in time. God Bless You!

[@Yram0018]

I gave up social media in hopes of spending more time with God and reading his word!!❤

[@MinnowCreekGirl]

Once again your video posted just when I needed it. I remember being taught that fasting is my sacrifice to Jesus because he sacrified his life for mine.

[@Abrey012]

Love these videos. Been a great help to me. Especially as I approach baptism this Easter.

[@oliviarapavi1177]

Negative92 So excited for you! God bless, welcome home 😊

[@Abrey012]

Thank you so much. Very kind.

[@ManuelCruz-tv8bi]

Negative92 haha same here

[@TurquoiseTalks]

Welcome home!

[@memolesnarmon8074]

Thank you Father Mike for awesome educational vlog. I started going back to my parish last year 2017. I love our Parish. I'm going to catechism RCIA class to do my first communion and confirmation.

[@patrickruiz6181]

I love how you take movies, and at very often times well-known movies, and share a deep message that most of us pass without noticing. I love brave heart as well! All the Glory to God🙌

[@irishdahlia]

Great accent Father, you kilt it!

[@leannguerin5105]

😆😆😆

[@jjjreese]

😂😂😂😂

[@39meagain]

Lent is truly a special time. Thank you for reminding us what this time should be about.

[@snowwhite5196]

Hi, Father Mike. I gave up watching TV this Lent. I only allow myself to watch Catholic related movies, documentaries, and KZbin channels, which is how I found your channel. This penance has allowed me to get closer to God and I feel so happy. Peace and love.

[@ziggy33399]

Thank you. This means a lot to me Father. My sister just died, my brains are all over the place. Meditation and prayer help me refocus starting g before I get out of bed (along with gratitude). Fasting 7 days at most (just simple water fast) has helped me over recent years. When the services are complete (last one this Sunday) I want to commit (maybe longer) with prayer and fasting. Some things can’t be experienced (for me) any other way. The timing is right. You have such a lilting uplifting bright light kind of “way” ~ thank you for rising up with a KZbin channel. Thank God I was lead here. 👍🏼🙏🏽🙏🏽👍🏼❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@hopeoftheresurrection]

Thanks for this topic! I'm really appreciative of the clarification for fasting! It's all about Him!!

[@Msbmagao]

Plan and simple, I LOVE Fr. Mike. Makes our Catholic religion so real.

[@mom6boyz]

This year we put an intention on the calendar for each day, so that while we deny ourselves food, media etc, or try to overcome ourselves by doing those things we don't like or being patient in ridiculous traffic or so many, many things, that we can think of the person or the "thing" (like ending abortion and infanticide) and know that no only does "the Father see us" but also that He will move those hardened hearts. Thank you Fr. Schmitz for helping us stay focused on the Grace of God that helps us through. My boys really benefit from your videos!

[@illusoryLifeee]

I needed a motivation to not break my fast I haven't had a proper fast in years bcz definitely I lost my faith in God But doing it today I'm not spiritually doing it like I haven't offered a proper prayer to the Lord but Iam doing this so that Lord could offer me something I need I'm not so serious about this fasting thing but the moment you said God notices he sees you I literally started crying Maybe God is helping me through your words Thankyou so much for your support God bless this community and you father

[@sydneyc.6714]

God bless Fr. Mike. Yes, God does hear us. He answers in his time not ours. We must have faith and patience with God.

[@k.m.1993]

Thank you Father. Great teaching as always. I will keep in my heart that God sees and it matters to Him.

[@DL-xf3ur]

I did love the part about we know He sees us. I want Lent to be a way to connect with God. To break down any barriers that I have put up. May God bless you father Mike.

[@oribermudez]

Father Mike, it seems that you read our minds and respond to our inside questions. It is true that God speaks trough you. It is a blessing to hear you, each time I watch one of your videos, it is always about something I have been wondering about. Thank you so much. God bless you.

[@Jenabb27]

Instead of making it all about food restrictions, I stuck to the golden rule of no meat Fridays. This Lenten period has been one of increased prayer and of letting myself openly talk about my faith to whoever asks. Inspired by That Catholic Couple, I took on the Litany of Humility as a daily prayer. Also trying to go to Adoration on a weekly basis. Above all, thanking the Lord for everything along the way. God Bless.

[@michaelhaywood8262]

here in England, Friday abstinence applies all year[except if a Solemnity and the Fridays in the Octaves of Christmas and Easter]. My health does not permit severe fasting so have to make token efforts, such as having plainer and blander food than normal, and I have also given up secular daytime TV [before 6pm].

[@rachelgomes6470]

Fr. Mike, you're such a blessing, God bless you ALWAYS!

[@connorbergeron639]

About time this misdirection of Lenten fasting towards dieting was addressed - stellar, laddie.

[@w4in]

That's great that you pointed out the reason for doing what we do. I for sure forget that at times and end up doing all that kinda stuff really to try to make myself look good..

[@MiaCaliendo]

FATHER MIKE YOU ARE VERY INTERESTING. As a priest I do like the way your are presenting the teachings.

[@ren8778]

Father Mike, you've answered many questions. Recently my youth minister, Katherine, went to Anaheim for the Catholic convention and met you. She showed us the short video you had made with her for us and I'm so grateful to you.

[@DeidreSavino]

So grateful to Fr Mike Schmitz and Ascension Press for these videos -- I use them with my students all the time. These, plus Busted Halo, have been invaluable! Mil gracias.

[@TyroneBeiron]

We thank God for the gift of your charism in this ministry, and keep you in all prayer.

[@wilburanton7276]

Thank you Father, I watched this video before lent and it really helped me to follow the lent season the right way, very gracefully I lived the lent season.

[@claytonwenrich3588]

Your amazing Fr. Mike

[@michelinelanglais8786]

Thank you Father Mike 🙏❤️

[@sebastianstewart6894]

It is a beautiful interpretation of a very ancient practice. Another interpretation is that because fasting detoxes the energy pathways and mitochondria it allows for a new resonance of energy to establish itself in the body and considering that the heart is the strongest energy centre of the body and controls our emotional state then performing acts of compassion would strengthen the nerves because of a release of serotonin and dopamine which in turn strengthens the body and mind both through the relationship of the organs and through electrical wave motion. We can even go further by incorporating how thought forms can be imprinted in the heart nerve plexus that can then be transferred to other people which would be soothed by your presence. We can even push it further with the fact that there is no vacuum in nature and all things exist in a matrix like structure which is how diffusion and electrical displacement happens in nature. Add to this matrix the fact that human infrared spectrum is the same as it's resonant infrared spectrum then you can start to see how important fasting is as it allows humans to realign their energies which infrared is a part of.

[@BrittanyReynolds-rk3fg]

Father Mike thank you.

[@JTPauley]

Penance makes sense. In any relationship, if there's more than a shallow basis, we do things out of love that aren't necessarily pleasant. And when we do something wrong to the other, we ideally WANT to do something as a sign of how we are sorry, not because they demand it or won't believe us, but just because we love them.

[@marcoferreira0223]

I think this was so wise. Describes repentance perfectly if you choose to see it that way.

[@ethiopienqueen]

We all need to work on how we live Lent season. We need to live the true meaning of Lent. I struggle with how to structure the things I give up and what I do during Lent. Thanks father Mike for this uplifting video. God bless you🙏🏽

[@dentakleen5204]

Glad I saw this video. Pastor Mike explained it well. I was going to fast primarily for health, but the main reason should be to be closer to God.

[@Pju-mz3nr]

Thanks Father Mike. I always start my day with Daily readings, reflections, prayers and you. I love that you can articulate so well how I think, and feel about my faith. I've added you to my lent Rituals, but will continue past lent. I feel like I have found a treasure or a gift. Just another blessing I am so grateful for. Thanks for doing what you do.

[@margieknitter995]

Thank you Father Mike, you help me understand my faith more and help me explain to others. Keep up the great work. I will pray for you. 📿

[@ashleycalderon9846]

This was an amazing lesson on why we fast for lent. Thank you so much for such a great lesson 💕

[@e97000716]

Keep me in your prayer I’m starting a 40 day fast on bread and water

[@dinacomics]

yes yes!! it was so moving specially towards the end! Thank you Father Mike, Such a blessing to watch your videos :)

[@CS_Heavy_D]

Hello father Mike, I'll be getting baptised, conformation and first communion at the Easter vigil and you were recommended as a good KZbin channel by my RCIA group. Loving your videos so far. God bless

[@benjaminburns180]

Thanks father mike!

[@aliciagomez2817]

Thanks Fr. Mike for the good advice😊

[@capt.redbeard8361]

Thanks for this video, Father Mike... I think it's more an Irish accent than a Scottish one though

[@zanastrange1878]

Thank you Father Mike.

[@deborahtofflemire7727]

Father I just LOVE you .You are so real And when you teach I get it.thanks

[@annejacobs514]

2021 Love your Scottish Accent , Fr. Mike!! Thank you for making these videos

[@maraiza001]

Father Mike you are an amazing human being! Love watching your videos!❤️

[@youorfunnystone1982]

Hey brother Mike my teacher always puts your videos on so we can learn about Jesus and basically God so thank you for doing this KZbin channel

[@giftkirabo5192]

Amen thank you father mike for the beautiful quote

[@marcoferreira0223]

Thank you Father for another one of your touching videos. How I wish you could make and upload more, they nourish my soul and help me walk back on the path of conversion. I don't think you realize how many lives you've touched and how many souls you've saved. Thank you for telling me I belong in the Church and it's just Us. I love you Father Mike and just feel distraught I only get to see you on these rare occasions through these videos. What a blessing it must be to be able to live with you on a daily basis or even just attend your weekly Masses. Thank you for helping a great sinner like me come closer to God and giving me some hope that there is salvation through God's immense love for people like me. So I just wanted to say thank you for all you've done in my life and for each video you post. Know that to some of us it truly means the world and I pray that God blesses you abundantly for every soul you've touched and saved through these videos. A very sincere and humble Thank You.

[@johnflanigan4642]

I look forward every Wednesday for this! Good job! 👴🏻

[@glopez4919]

Always great to hear your wisdom Fr Mike, I'm trying to fast little by little 2 small meals 1 full meal. I'm glad to know that God is noticing because it comes from my heart.

[@marcihf9763]

Thank you Father

[@rethinkscience8454]

I’ve be randomly fasting for the last 6 months and have decided to do it daily over lent, until 12 noon from the previous night before. Along with daily pray. Mary fasted every day along with every saint that ever was, and Jesus as well. If you give up the drug of sugar first you will find it easier.

[@rosemariekury9186]

It's more difficult for me to fast from social media like YT unless is religious during Lent than food though. Your gals are amazingly! Thanks Father.

[@moreliacortes9214]

You’re the best! Have a wonderful lent season 2022!❤️

[@thaliarose8741]

Amen. Reading and studying bible will guides through a true lent

[@jessicaknight9749]

Thank you for making this video, for sharing this with all of us. This has been one of the many videos which you’ve shared that are so touching. Thank you for being the priest that you are because some of these videos have really helped me develop a closer relationship to God and helped me and my family reconnect through our local church. God bless you always and thank you so much.

[@victoriabiel5861]

I appreciate your talks, and as we move through the Lenten season and approach Easter Day (such a happy glorious event!) I look forward to further videos about Christ's resurrection and what it truly means for us now and in our spiritual life to come. I haven't seen all your past videos, but I'm just wondering if you ever commented on the shroud of Turin. I was just recently watching an update of all the amazing data and confirming evidence collected about this relic, and I found it so completely fascinating. Let me be absolutely clear about one thing: many of us don't need confirmation that the shroud is authentic to believe in Christ's resurrection and all that this event meant for humanity. I certainly don't; but it definitely might make someone who is perhaps an atheist pause and reflect on this. Thank you for sharing your spiritual thoughts and teachings! I watch you and Bishop Barron quite a bit.

[@jaybel8199]

I haven't golfed or played basketball after work since Ashe wednesday and it's starting to drive me crazy! Thanks for reminding me God is watching and he cares =D

[@Goodnews499]

Thank you Father Mike..your videos are so helpful...praise the Lord

[@shawncampbell8662]

I have been approaching the season of Lent all wrong. I haven't thought about what I should give up or fast from. I still do my daily time with God but have not done a fast before. Father Mike has reminded me of what the season of Lent is about and why we fast. Maybe it's too late to start a fast for Lent. There is always next year.

[@am18622]

Thank you for this, Father Mike. I also liked your impersonation of a Scottish accent (it sounded slightly more Irish but nonetheless charming! I'm Scottish :) ). Have a blessed Lent!

[@jacobtrevino8290]

Father Mike, this is so on point. Thank you for your Vocation and for sharing these videos!!

[@marvinmansueto6081]

Yeah you are internationally known. I come from a tiny island in the Mediterranean, Malta, and I listen to your clips and many Maltese friends I know on social media share them too. Great job you are doing, spreading the Gospel in a cool and practical manner. As for fasting I decided to fast more during this season but I realised its not that easy (I crave more for food)but I am working hard on fasting from gossipping, TV watching, overspending on luxuries,etc. And include in my daily duties more spiritual reading, listening to spiritual exercises and Bible reading.

[@sandragrace4613]

Nice Scottish accent. Great talk, thank you!

[@aileenruane6713]

Scottish accent sounded a liiiiiiittle Canadian there are the end ;) Great video per usual, Father!

[@leadbyexample333]

Loved your video. Thank you for sharing Father Mike.

[@lateciamesngon4483]

Thank you for helping me through my Lenten journey! ❤️

[@stmarytimeandtalent7452]

Keep up the good work! I'm praying for you.

[@deborahfitzharris4559]

Wonderful, Father! If everyone would fast. It gets easier if you turn your face to God.

[@diamondgirl7997]

That was a beautiful explanation. He sees Me? I used to have a difficult time believing that. Your video and your sincerity touched my heart

[@miniaugustine5294]

Father. Keep me in ur prayer. Im going through such a difficult time.

[@frederickbarenchi3676]

I like listening to father Mike.p.s. if you and your spouse are both married but not in the church . do it in the church as soon as possible . take it from some one who made the mistake of not doing it wail,I could have.

[@CeeVee714]

Nice to be reminded of this again.

[@paulhandsome1691]

Thank you Father and Pray for Me

[@laXrockera691]

Forgive me if this is to broad of a statement, but you're great Father Mike! 😂 Not only do you stick to the message, you also bring a little (or a lot) of you in the message. I don't know if that makes sense, but thank you for your videos.

[@FreedomandBaconHomestead]

Love ya, Fr. Mike. :)

[@heyangeline]

awesome scottish accent! and I really like this video, clarifies what the focus of lent should be

[@imommtube]

Scottish accent, I like it, but I loved this commentary about lent, as always, thanks a lot

[@dzuvichu1742]

Iam from nagaland..and i love listening to your sharings and i get to lewrn a lot.also do remember me in your prayer for good health.i would go nuts with joy if i get a response from you father.Thank you.

[@almeggs3247]

Beautiful thanks! Amen 🙏🏻

[@toddcarver1430]

Ahhh, it's not about me... Awesome. Thank you Father!

[@carlospineda1586]

I'll try to fast everything on Good Friday.

[@luisasellshomestead3544]

Great message. Love watching you in video.

[@seandowling1729]

Fr Mike . May I ask respectfully your followers in Jesus to pray for Ireland. We need help in trying to retain the right of the unborn to life , as enshrined in our constitution. If this's repealed there'll be abortion on demand here, which up now we have kept off our island. Please can everyone pray for us to have the courage and steal to keep our protection for the unborn. God Bless. Midwife Sean.

[@vickilljoy6099]

I've been fasting for the first time this year, giving up meat, but now that easter is here my mother wants to invite me and my brother over for lamb steak, and when I asked if it could wait til Sunday she told me "everyone can't always adjust to your food thing". Really struck something in me, and now I don't know if it's worse to break fast to please my family, or to keep going one last week to not feel like I've betrayed God

[@juliapersaud5254]

Peace be with you father as a catholic I keep lent too and it does help me To lose weight but lots of people struggle With gluttony and maybe this is a way to put an end to it

[@marciecowan172]

I like popcorn a lot! I mean tons! I gave it up for Lent. I miss popcorn a lot!!! I mean tons!!! I love u Jesus !!! I love u Jesus!!!! I know He sees and appreciates my sacrifice. That is why I give it up other times of the year like a couple of weeks before and up until a TEC or conference. He sees and will bless my sacrifice because He loves me way more than I love Him!!! And I love Him a lot!!! Bless u Father and all your good work!!!

[@ginakleinejaeger4997]

Thank you for this video…and….love your Scottish accent. ☺️

[@EllieAugustin]

You are so funny! Ha Thank you so much for another awesome teaching I shared this w/my kids because they were questioning (especially my 19 yr son) and now I have a good answer :)

[@jasonzacharias2150]

God bless and keep us! Nice accent Padre 😇✌️

[@MarkDiSciullo]

Thank you!

[@scorpiog9467]

Hi God bless have a good day

[@sarahdowney6697]

Yes about Jesus ✝️