Episode 1907: Embracing Lent: A Traditional Catholic Perspective

Embracing Lent: A Traditional Catholic Perspective
We delve into timeless wisdom and perspectives on matters that resonate through the ages. We embark on a journey through Lent, guided by the profound insights of two revered Christian writers: St. John Chrysostom and Thomas a’ Kempis.
Lent, a season of reflection and repentance, is often associated with fasting and abstaining from worldly pleasures. But what deeper significance do these practices hold from a traditional Catholic perspective?
Let's first consider the words of St. John Chrysostom, who reminds us that the fast of Lent is not merely about abstaining from food but about a profound spiritual renewal.
"The fast of Lent has no advantage to us unless it brings about our spiritual renewal. It is necessary while fasting to change our whole life and practice virtue. Turning away from all wickedness means keeping our tongue in check, restraining our anger, avoiding all gossip, lying and swearing. To abstain from these things—herein lies the true value of the fast."
He emphasizes the need to transcend mere physical discipline and instead use Lent as an opportunity to transform our entire lives. This transformation involves not only refraining from sinful actions but also cultivating virtues such as temperance, humility, and charity. It’s about taming our tongues, controlling our anger, and shunning all forms of deceit and gossip.
St. John Chrysostom’s words echo the fundamental teachings of the Catholic Church regarding Lent. It’s not just about giving up chocolate or caffeine; it's about deepening our relationship with God and striving for holiness in all aspects of our lives.
The fast of Lent has no advantage to us unless it brings about our spiritual renewal: In Catholicism, fasting during Lent is not just about abstaining from food or certain luxuries; it's a spiritual discipline meant to draw us closer to God. The purpose of fasting is to purify our hearts, minds, and souls, leading to spiritual renewal. It's not merely a physical act but a deeply spiritual one aimed at deepening our relationship with God.
It is necessary while fasting to change our whole life and practice virtue: Fasting is not an isolated practice; it should be accompanied by a genuine desire for inner transformation. Traditional Catholic teaching emphasizes the importance of practicing virtues such as humility, charity, patience, and temperance. Lenten fasting should lead to a holistic change in our lives, aligning our actions with the teachings of Christ.
Turning away from all wickedness means keeping our tongue in check, restraining our anger, avoiding all gossip, lying, and swearing: St. John Chrysostom highlights the importance of moral integrity during Lenten fasting. In Catholicism, fasting goes hand in hand with self-discipline and moral purification. This includes controlling our speech, refraining from harmful gossip, speaking the truth, and avoiding anger and negativity. Lent is a time for self-examination and repentance, turning away from sinful behaviors and striving for holiness.
To abstain from these things—herein lies the true value of the fast: The true value of Lenten fasting lies not just in abstaining from certain foods or pleasures but in embracing a lifestyle of virtue and righteousness. By forsaking sinful behaviors and cultivating virtuous habits, we draw closer to God and experience the transformative power of His grace. The ultimate goal of fasting is spiritual growth and union with God, leading to a life of greater holiness and fulfillment.
In summary, St. John Chrysostom's words remind Catholics that Lenten fasting is not a superficial ritual but a profound spiritual journey towards renewal, virtue, and closeness to God. It's a time for introspection, repentance, and striving for holiness in all aspects of life.
Now, let’s turn to the wisdom of Thomas a’ Kempis. Before we do please let me tell you who he was.
Thomas à Kempis was a medieval Christian monk and writer, best known for his classic work "The Imitation of Christ." Here's a brief biography of this influential figure:

Early Life: Thomas à Kempis was born around 1380 in Kempen, near the city of Cologne in the Rhine Valley, which was then part of the Holy Roman Empire (present-day Germany). His birth name was Thomas Hemerken or Hammerlein. He was the son of a blacksmith, and from a young age, he showed a deep piety and inclination towards religious life.

Education and Entry into Monasticism: At the age of 13, Thomas left home to attend a school operated by the Brethren of the Common Life, a lay religious movement emphasizing piety, simplicity, and communal living. Inspired by the devotion and discipline of the Brethren, Thomas decided to join their monastic community at Mount St. Agnes near Zwolle, Netherlands, when he was 19 years old. He took the name "Thomas à Kempis" upon entering the monastery.

Monastic Life and Work: Thomas spent the rest of his life as a member of the monastic community at Mount St. Agnes. He dedicated himself to a life of prayer, meditation, and scholarly pursuits. He held various positions within the monastery, including that of sub-prior and novice master.

Literary Legacy: Thomas à Kempis is best known for his writing, particularly his masterpiece, "The Imitation of Christ" (Latin: "De Imitatione Christi"). This devotional work, composed in Latin, is one of the most widely read and beloved Christian books in history. It offers practical guidance on how to follow Christ closely in daily life, emphasizing humility, simplicity, and devotion. "The Imitation of Christ" has been translated into numerous languages and has had a profound influence on Christian spirituality for centuries.

Other Works: In addition to "The Imitation of Christ," Thomas wrote several other devotional and theological works, including "The Soliloquy of the Soul," "The Valley of Lilies," and various commentaries on scripture and the writings of the Church Fathers.

Death and Legacy: Thomas à Kempis died on July 25, 1471, at the age of around 91, in the monastery where he had lived most of his life. He was buried in the chapel of Mount St. Agnes. Thomas left behind a rich literary legacy that continues to inspire and guide Christians of all denominations. His writings reflect a profound spirituality rooted in the traditions of medieval Catholicism, emphasizing personal devotion, humility, and the pursuit of holiness. Thomas à Kempis is remembered as one of the great spiritual masters of the Christian tradition.
He said:
“Wait a little while, my soul, await the promise of God, and you will have the fullness of all that is good in heaven. If you yearn inordinately for the good things of this life, you will lose those which are heavenly and eternal. Use temporal things properly, but always desire what is eternal. Temporal things can never fully satisfy you, for you were not created to enjoy them alone . . . for your blessedness and happiness lie only in God, who has made all things from nothing.”
His words remind us of the fleeting nature of earthly pleasures and the eternal value of seeking God above all else. In a world consumed by materialism and instant gratification, Thomas a’ Kempis urges us to resist the allure of temporal things and instead fix our gaze upon the eternal. He encourages us to use the good things of this world with moderation but to never lose sight of our ultimate goal: union with God.
Let's break down Thomas à Kempis' quote into a traditional Catholic perspective:
"Wait a little while, my soul, await the promise of God, and you will have the fullness of all that is good in heaven.": This part emphasizes the importance of patience and trust in God's promises. From a traditional Catholic perspective, patience is considered a virtue, and it is often linked with faith and hope. Catholics believe in the promise of eternal life in heaven, where the faithful will experience the fullness of joy and goodness in the presence of God.

"If you yearn inordinately for the good things of this life, you will lose those which are heavenly and eternal.": Here, Thomas à Kempis warns against placing excessive importance on worldly pleasures and desires. Traditional Catholic teaching emphasizes the importance of detachment from worldly attachments and the pursuit of spiritual goods. While it's not inherently wrong to enjoy temporal blessings, becoming overly attached to them can hinder our spiritual growth and distance us from God.

"Use temporal things properly, but always desire what is eternal.": This part underscores the importance of using temporal goods responsibly and in accordance with God's will. In Catholicism, material possessions and worldly pleasures are considered gifts from God to be used for the service of others and the glory of God. However, they should never become the primary focus of our lives. True fulfillment comes from seeking and desiring what is eternal, namely, a relationship with God and the treasures of heaven.

"Temporal things can never fully satisfy you, for you were not created to enjoy them alone . . . for your blessedness and happiness lie only in God, who has made all things from nothing.": This final part reaffirms the traditional Catholic belief that ultimate happiness and fulfillment can only be found in God. While temporal things may bring temporary pleasure or satisfaction, they can never fully satisfy the deepest longings of the human heart. Catholics believe that God alone can fulfill our deepest desires and bring true happiness and blessedness to our lives.

In summary, Thomas à Kempis' quote reflects a traditional Catholic perspective on the proper attitude towards temporal goods and the pursuit of eternal happiness in God. It emphasizes the importance of patience, detachment from worldly desires, responsible use of material blessings, and the ultimate fulfillment found in union with God.
From a traditional Catholic perspective, Lent is a season of detachment—a time to detach ourselves from the distractions of the world and reorient our hearts towards heaven. It’s a journey of self-denial and spiritual discipline, guided by the wisdom of saints like St. John Chrysostom and Thomas a’ Kempis.
As we journey through Lent, may we heed the words of these wise sages, using this sacred season as an opportunity for profound spiritual growth and renewal. Let us embrace fasting not as a burden but as a pathway to deeper intimacy with God. And may we always remember that our true happiness lies not in the fleeting pleasures of this world but in the eternal love of our Heavenly Father.
I hope you found inspiration and encouragement for your Lenten journey. Let’s end with 1 Peter 1:13-16
"Therefore, gird up the loins of your mind, live soberly, and set your hopes completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Like obedient children, do not act in compliance with the desires of your former ignorance but, as he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in every aspect of your conduct, for it is written, 'Be holy because I [am] holy.'"
Be sure to go out there and convert somebody with these thoughts today. Good day!