World-renowned actor Mark Wahlberg continues to use his platform to share his faith with the world. The devout Catholic marked Ash Wednesday last week with an appearance on The Today Show to talk more about his faith journey and what the Lenten season means to him.
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“God didn’t come to save the saints. He came to save the sinners,” Wahlberg said about how his relationship with God has helped him overcome a troubled past. “We’ve all had things and issues in our lives, and we want to be better versions of ourselves, and through focusing on my faith, it’s allowed me to do that."
Wahlberg, who recently moved his family out of Hollywood for a fresh start, acknowledged that his faith is not a popular thing in Hollywood, but that it doesn’t deter him from talking about what he believes.
“It’s a balance. I don’t want to jam it down anybody’s throat, but I do not deny my faith,” Wahlberg explained. “You know, it’s not popular in my industry, but I cannot deny my faith. It’s important for me to share that with people. But I have friends from all walks of life and all different types of faiths and religions, so it’s important to respect and honor them as well.”
This Lent, Wahlberg is participating in a weekly fast each Friday where he doesn’t have any meat that day and only eats one meal. The Lenten season lasts through April 6th, followed by Good Friday and Easter Weekend. And while altering meals or denying food isn’t for everyone, Wahlberg noted that the practice of giving up something in order to draw closer to God is such a rewarding experience.
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"There are many different elements to fasting," Wahlberg said. "I think the important thing to understand is that, first of all, if you have issues with food, there are other things. God knows the things that He wants you to detach from. We all know those things that make us feel guilty, don’t make us feel as good as we should. So (it's about) being able to detach from those things and focus on good habits as opposed to bad habits.”
The “Father Stu” actor and producer will be sharing more about the spiritual benefits of fasting as part of the Hallow app’s Pray40 Lent Challenge.
"Discipline has always been important for me in life,” Wahlberg said. “And I want to share that with people, whether that’s with fasting, working out more, detaching from other things and just spending more time with God, in prayer or in thoughtful reflection. Those things are important.”
Wahlberg’s testimony is proof that it’s never too late to stop, reflect and take intentional steps toward improving your life and drawing closer to God. Rise above this Easter and experience the difference that wholesome entertainment can have in your home with clean streaming from Pure Flix.
Photo credit: YouTube
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