Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. Colossians 3:2
“Fastings, vigils, meditation on the Scriptures, self-denial, and the abnegation of all possessions are not perfection, but aids to perfection: because the end of that science does not lie in these, but by means of these we arrive at the end. He then will practise these exercises to no purpose, who is contented with these as if they were the highest good, and has fixed the purpose of his heart simply on them, and does not extend his efforts towards reaching the end, on account of which these should be sought: for he possesses indeed the implements of his art, but is ignorant of the end, in which all that is valuable resides. Whatever then can disturb that purity and peace of mind — even though it may seem useful and valuable — should be shunned as really hurtful, for by this rule we shall succeed in escaping harm from mistakes and vagaries, and make straight for the desired end and reach it. This then should be our main effort: and this steadfast purpose of heart we should constantly aspire after; that the soul may ever cleave to God and to heavenly things.”
John Cassian (360-435) in The Conferences of John Cassian (Grand Rapids: CCEL) 8.
It’s important to note that fasting, almsgiving, and prayer are not “ends” but rather “aids to perfection” and if that word “perfection” throws you off, think, spiritual maturity. They position us to live a life of Christian generosity.
Letting go of that which is good to take hold of something better is what Lent teaches us. The key in the second half of Lent is learning to grasp that which is heavenly. Or in plain terms, the key to fasting is learning to feast on Jesus.
Mary figured this out faster than Martha in this classic text, Luke 10:38-42.
As Jesus and His disciples were on their way, He came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to Him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what He said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to Him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed — or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
Lent is learning not to be distracted so that we latch on to the one thing that is better, the one thing that is needed. Only when we do that we are positioned to serve as conduits of blessing.