Abstinence can be the loving thing to do
July 13th, 2007 by 
catholicwriter
Brought up and formed by our culture, it is hard at times for us to abstain, because our culture teaches us to indulge, anytime and anywhere we want. Abstinence is to be avoided.
Abstinence can be the loving thing to when, for example, our bodies need detoxification. We abstain from food and only drink water, so as to purify our bodies.
In marriage, abstinence from sex can be the loving thing to do when one partner is ill.
In church, abstinence from Communion can be the loving thing to do when one knows one is sinful.
I remember a couple of incidents in the past when I was going up to receive Communion and I saw a friend who refrained from receiving, and I asked him “Why?” Isn’t the whole point of coming for Mass about receiving Communion, I asked.
But now I know that choosing not to receive Communion can be the loving thing to do. It can even show a greater respect for the sacrament than receiving it in any condition that we are in.
Likewise, abstinence from food during detoxification shows greater respect for the body than indulging anything at any time.
And abstinence from sex in marriage shows greater respect for the marriage than indulging in sex, whenever and wherever.
Posted in Marriage, Sex, Theology of the Body | 
