Lenten Sacrifice - Turn Off the Lights
By Colette Lemire
The Lenten Season is a time for prayer, fasting and almsgiving/charity. In this article we will learn about one specific aspect of fasting, with all its discipline and love. We have all had ideas about what it means to fast.
Fasting is not about doing something hard or difficult. It is about being called to be different. As Catholics we know that we are different. We are called to choose to do something extra, and to be faithful to the teachings of the Catholic Church. In obedience to its teachings in Scripture and Tradition, we are being sacrificial and out of that obedience is Love! So by fasting we are showing our Love.
One particular way that came to my attention was to fast from artificial light. So how to do this: a) you and your household decide on an evening where you would not use electricity – for safety’s sake you would still need to keep night lights plugged in, b) decide what time span you will choose – many would choose from sundown or after supper until the next morning, c) decide what chores would need to be done beforehand such as supper, dishes, laundry, bathing of children, etc. d) now you are ready for candlelight (always remember to keep candles in a safe place), e) choose what you will do now as there is no computer, no smartphone, no television, no radio, and no lights, etc. – maybe do the Rosary, do some Scripture reading or read an inspirational book by candlelight; if there are still children awake, maybe a board game or family sharing time, talk and share with your spouse, etc., f) enjoy the silence – let Our Lord chat with you, open yourself up to discussing your concerns, hopes, desires, dreams, with him. This fast is quite unique and would take some planning but the focus of sacrifice would definitely be in the forefront.
Fasting can involve giving something up but it must involve sacrifice and prayer and can only be done out of love and obedience. Remember to keep Jesus as the highlight of this Lenten Season. He is the example of ultimate sacrifice out of love for each and every one of us.
Fasting is not about doing something hard or difficult. It is about being called to be different. As Catholics we know that we are different. We are called to choose to do something extra, and to be faithful to the teachings of the Catholic Church. In obedience to its teachings in Scripture and Tradition, we are being sacrificial and out of that obedience is Love! So by fasting we are showing our Love.
One particular way that came to my attention was to fast from artificial light. So how to do this: a) you and your household decide on an evening where you would not use electricity – for safety’s sake you would still need to keep night lights plugged in, b) decide what time span you will choose – many would choose from sundown or after supper until the next morning, c) decide what chores would need to be done beforehand such as supper, dishes, laundry, bathing of children, etc. d) now you are ready for candlelight (always remember to keep candles in a safe place), e) choose what you will do now as there is no computer, no smartphone, no television, no radio, and no lights, etc. – maybe do the Rosary, do some Scripture reading or read an inspirational book by candlelight; if there are still children awake, maybe a board game or family sharing time, talk and share with your spouse, etc., f) enjoy the silence – let Our Lord chat with you, open yourself up to discussing your concerns, hopes, desires, dreams, with him. This fast is quite unique and would take some planning but the focus of sacrifice would definitely be in the forefront.
Fasting can involve giving something up but it must involve sacrifice and prayer and can only be done out of love and obedience. Remember to keep Jesus as the highlight of this Lenten Season. He is the example of ultimate sacrifice out of love for each and every one of us.