Diet to Overcome Indifference
Deuteronomy 26:4-10; Romans 10:8-13; Luke 4:1-13
The Lenten season calls us to fasting, almsgiving, and prayer—three perennial spiritual disciplines. However, in light of Pope Francis’ 2015 Lenten message, we are invited to expand our understanding of fasting as a means to overcome indifference. The Pope warns that “indifference to our neighbor and to God represents a real temptation for us Christians.” This indifference often stems from an attitude of exceptionalism, where individuals separate themselves from the struggles of others, believing that societal issues do not concern them directly.
A Nigerian man, who had sent his two sons to the United States for their studies, had not seen them for five years due to financial constraints. A man of robust appetite, he enjoyed eating well and abundantly at every meal. Upon their return, his sons were surprised to find that their father had grown significantly in size—what they called “plenty” in Nigerian slang, or what Americans might term “extra-large.” Concerned for his health, they persuaded him to visit a doctor.
At the clinic, the sons voiced their worries to the doctor, fearing that their father’s weight put him at risk of a heart attack or other health complications. The doctor agreed with their concerns and placed the man on a strict diet. When the father asked what a diet entailed, the doctor prescribed a light regimen: two slices of toasted bread and a cup of tea for breakfast, a small portion of French fries for lunch, and soup for dinner.
All three thanked the doctor, and as they were about to leave, the father paused at the door. Turning back to the doctor, he asked with great sincerity: “Doctor, this diet you prescribed—should I eat it before or after my meals?”
This story illustrates a deep human tendency: we often hear advice, commands, or instructions but fail to grasp their essence. Just as the Nigerian father struggled to comprehend the diet’s purpose, many of us go through Lent mechanically, observing rituals but missing the transformation they should bring.
The first reading from Deuteronomy (26:4-10) emphasizes the offering of the first fruits, an act of thanksgiving for God’s blessings. Gratitude is a central theme in religious practice, as it acknowledges God’s salvific work. However, the danger of Jewish exceptionalism lurks within this gratitude, as some interpreted God’s blessings as exclusive to them, rather than seeing His love as encompassing all people.
Our Lenten journey challenges us to recognize that God is the God of all humanity, extending His generosity to all races, genders, and social classes. True gratitude should compel us to imitate God’s generosity, particularly by serving those in need. Thus, Lent becomes a time not only for personal reflection but also for social responsibility—acknowledging that we are one human family under God.
Luke’s Gospel (4:1-13) presents the threefold temptation of Jesus, revealing the roots of human indifference. The first temptation—turning stones into bread—reminds us of the danger of economic power being used as a tool of oppression. In our world today, food is often weaponized, with wealthier nations and individuals deciding who gets to eat and who does not. Jesus’ refusal to misuse power for selfish gain teaches us to share resources justly and provide for the hungry.
The second temptation—Satan’s offer of power in exchange for worship—reflects the human obsession with control. Power, when detached from service, becomes corrupt. Many individuals and institutions exploit their authority, forgetting that true leadership is rooted in humility and service. Lent invites us to recognize God as the true source of power and to use any influence we possess for the common good.
The third temptation—testing God by recklessly throwing oneself down—warns against arrogance and entitlement. Many today refuse to live within their means, seeking constant validation and grandeur. Jesus’ humility in rejecting this temptation reminds us that life is not about proving superiority but about embracing simplicity and trust in God.
In Romans 10:8-13, Paul emphasizes that “there is no distinction between Jew and Greek,” asserting that God’s salvation is for all. This message challenges us to expand our understanding of fasting beyond food deprivation to the fasting of exclusion and division. True fasting in Lent means building bridges—reaching out to those marginalized due to gender, race, or social status.
Many people today suffer from exclusion—whether victims of racial discrimination, gender inequality, or social marginalization. The greatest hunger in our world is not just for food but for love, justice, and inclusion. Lent calls us to recognize and address this hunger by welcoming strangers, advocating for the oppressed, and practicing radical hospitality.
The humorous yet insightful story of the Nigerian father highlights how people often miss the real point of transformative practices. Just as the father saw the diet as an addition rather than a change, we sometimes treat Lent as an extra activity rather than a call to transformation. Jesus’ words in Matthew 25 remind us that the final judgment will be based on how we treated the least among us: “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”
This Lent, let us commit to overcoming indifference by actively loving and helping all people, regardless of differences. By doing so, we will not only observe Lent but will also help create a new humanity—one that reflects the boundless love of God.
Assignment for the week:
Is there a particular group of people—whether by race, religion, or background—that you struggle to understand or connect with? If so, consider reaching out to someone from that group today with kindness and an open heart!
Thanks Fr. Ayo