The Holy Father explains “accepting and living the truth revealed in Christ means, first of all, opening our hearts to God’s word.” Through fasting, “experienced as a form of self-denial,” we are able “to rediscover God’s gift and recognize that, created in His image and likeness, we find our fulfilment in Him.” Fasting, too, by helping us recognize our own poverty, helps us to love both God and neighbour.
“Lent is a time for believing,” the Pope says, “for welcoming God into our lives and allowing Him to ‘make His dwelling’ in us.”

In Pope Francis’ message for Lent 2021 February 12, 2021