Post-feast of the Dormition; Holy Martyrs Florus and Laurus (313-24).
Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat.
2 Corinthians 7:10-16; Mark 2:18-22.
Read Mark 2:18-22
Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory forever!
we are reminded of one of the important reasons for fasting. Not only does fasting help clear our mind for prayer, humble us, lighten our hearts, makes us more sensitive to those who go without food, strengthens our will through the practice of self-denial, heightens our focus on spiritual matters; it also—when coupled with prayer— physically manifests within us our longing for God who is the greatest good and the source of everything—all other goods, as tasty and beautiful as they are, are transitory and flow from the extreme generosity of the Lord. We put aside the lesser goods for that which is the greatest Good. An anonymous Christian spiritual author under the pen name of Basil said:
“True death is not a result of hunger for bread nor a result of thirst for this tangible water, but as a result of a hunger for hearing the word of the Lord. True death arises in the souls of those who do not hear. For one does “not live by bread alone, but by every word coming out through the mouth of God.” This is why . .. the attendants of the bridegroom cannot fast as long as the bridegroom is with them.” (Commentary on the Prophet Isaiah).
Today as we make our Traditional Friday fast, let us remember that my existence does not depend on food and drink, but by the presence of the Word of God in my life. Christ who loves us so deeply, that “while we were still sinners, died for us.” (Romans 5:8). Through the cross Jesus fully unites himself with our humanity as a bridegroom is united with his bride. This union fully bridges the gap between us and the Divine, which was separated by sin. This is such a historically important event that nothing compares to its grander and importance; therefore, we set all other goods aside to seek the Word of God.