Let’s talk Lent: that 40-day season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving that leads up to Easter. Why do we do it? Is it just some ancient Catholic diet plan? John Morales and Catholic apologist William Albrecht explore the biblical and historical roots of Lenten fasting in this Morning Air episode. 
Fasting in the Bible: Not Just a New Testament Thing
Fasting is all over the Bible! Here are some key moments:
-Moses fasted for 40 days and nights before receiving the Ten Commandments (Exodus 34:28). 
-Deuteronomy 9:18 talks about fasting as an act of repentance for sin. 
-Of course, Jesus Himself fasted for 40 days in the desert before beginning His public ministry (Matthew 4:1-2). If the Son of God did it, maybe we should pay attention? 
The Early Church
The idea of fasting before Easter goes way back: like,first-century Church back. William Albrecht brings up some powerful early Church writings:
-The Didache (written around the time of the Apostles) talks about fasting before baptism.
-The Shepherd of Hermas (early 100s) says fasting is essential… if we actually obey God’s commandments.
-St. Irenaeus (100s) mentions Christians debating how long to fast before Easter… proving that it was already a thing way before the Church even officially established Lent!
By the time of the Council of Nicaea (325 AD): Yep, the one that gave us the Nicene Creed… Lent was already fixed into the Church calendar. St. Athanasius (337 AD) even said that the whole Christian world was fasting for 40 days! 
The Church Fathers on Why Fasting Matters
If you need some motivation to stick to your Lenten fast (yes, that means no sneaky midnight chocolate runs 
), check out what these heavy-hitter saints had to say:
-St. Augustine (400s AD): “Fasting cleanses the soul, raises the mind, subjects one’s flesh to the spirit.” (Translation: It’s not about looking good for Easter brunch, it’s about growing in holiness!)
-Pope St. Leo the Great: Lent must be kept not just by avoiding bodily impurity, but by purifying our thoughts and faith. (Oof, a tough but necessary reminder. )
-St. Gregory of Nazianzus: Fasting before Easter is about dying with Christ, so we can rise with Him!
So… Why Do We Fast During Lent? 
Because Jesus did. Because the early Christians did. Because fasting isn’t about losing weight, it’s about losing sin. It’s a time to humble ourselves, grow closer to Christ, and prepare for the ultimate celebration… Easter! 
Lent is a spiritual practice that has stood the test of time. One thing’s clear: if we want to follow Christ, fasting isn’t optional… it’s essential.
So, let’s lean in, embrace the challenge, and let this Lent be one that truly transforms us. 
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