Fasting

When asked why his disciples did not fast, Jesus answered that while he was with them, there was no need to fast, but there would be a time when fasting would be part of their lives. (cf. Mt 9:14-15).  The Church has encouraged fasting for centuries, not to help us lose weight, but to clear the path to union with him of unnecessary clutter....be it food or other "distractions."   If we take a look at the patterns of our lives, we begin to see that certain routines, foods, habits, etc. have almost become addictions.  We realize how dependent on them we are when we try to give them up.  But there's more to fasting than giving up chocolate.  We want to eradicate, if possible, the BIG THINGS that stand in our way between us and our neighbor and God.  It's from those things or people that we must fast....and fill the time or use the energy for greater service to our families, our neighbor, the poor, ...and even to self...giving ourselves the rest and time for prayer that our busyness or distractions prevent us from doing.  What is the biggest log across the path that I need to remove to have clearer access to Jesus?
Bro. Rene