3/8/2019 LENTEN REFLECTION
[The disciples of John approached Jesus and said,
“Why do we and the Pharisees fast much,
but your disciples do not fast?”
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. 9:14-15)
Why do we fast during Lent? Is it merely something “nice” to do, or something we “should” do on Friday’s in order to be Catholic?
Today Jesus reveals to John’s disciples, to His own disciples, and to us the true nature of fasting. Fasting is about love. Through self denial we increase our love for the Heavenly Bridegroom, Jesus.
“Can the wedding guests mourn
as long as the bridegroom is with them?”
By our fasting we remove from our hearts that which doesn’t belong so as to make room for He who does. Fasting reveals real quickly our temptations to love anything or anyone more than God. It reveals any inordinate “loves” that we may hold onto.
Today as you fast with the entire Church, examine those places in your own heart that hinder your love of God. The Bridegroom is on one knee awaiting your answer. Will you forsake all other “loves” and say “Yes” to His proposal?