these sacrifices/acts of penance, have value because they teach virtue. Giving up something is good because it helps us grow in our ability to turn away from what we desire. Fasting helps us focus the eyes of our heart on Jesus, just as he focused the eyes of his heart on the Father in the 40 days he spent fasting. Our heart longs for deeper intimacy with the Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Fasting strengthens our ability to turn toward the good when we are faced with a temptation to sin.
