370. What is "fasting and bodily preparation"?
Fasting is denying oneself food or other pleasures for a particular period of time. Bodily preparation may include proper rest, personal cleanliness, and modest and reverent clothing. These outward expressions of reverence can draw our attention to our Lord and His gifts. However, in themselves they do not make us worthy and well prepared to receive the Sacrament.
1 Timothy 4:8 For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.
Note: In Luther's day, the Roman Catholic Church required fasting before allowing someone to commune. This is not required in the Bible, however, although it is often associated with repentance and prayer. "Fasting, prayer, and other such things may indeed be outward preparations and discipline ... so that the body may keep and bring itself modestly and reverently to receive Christ's body and blood. Yet the body cannot seize and make its own what is given in and with the Sacrament. This is done by the faith in the heart, which discerns this treasure and desires it" (LC V 37).
Eventual commentary
| Previous Question | Next Question |