Greetings on this the Friday after Ash Wednesday
Readings: Isaiah 58:1-9a; Psalm 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 18-19; Matthew 9:14-15
Summary
“Why do we fast, but you do not see it? afflict ourselves, but you take no note?” (Isa 58:3).
Authentic Fasting That Leads to Blessing
Is it not sharing your bread with the hungry, bringing the afflicted and the homeless into your house; Clothing the naked when you see them, and not turning your back on your own flesh? (Is 58:7)
Reflection
Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness;
in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense.
Thoroughly wash me from my guilt
and of my sin cleanse me.
(PS 51:3-4)
Personal Reflection
Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast. (Mt 9:15).
We fast not to be seen — but to be changed. We fast in the ways Isaiah explains fasting is in its holiest form. Yes, we eat less but more substantially we share what we have.
Even in Lent, we do not fast on Sunday — because joy cannot be eclipsed by discipline.
Humility before the Lord, Fasting and sharing. These are the corner stones of faith. And, Joy. Do not fast merely as a visible sign. Fast as a sign of sorrow for the joy we have neglected.
Even the earliest Christians were warned not to fast as a public performance… But as for your fasts, let them not be with the hypocrites, for they fast on the second and fifth days of the week, but do ye fast on the fourth and sixth days (Didache 8:1)
Fast in a way that feeds someone.
Fast in a way that softens your heart.
Fast in a way that makes room for joy to return.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/022026.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry
Is wonderful!!!🎁🌈🤍