Friday after Ash Wednesday

True fasting

Matthew 9:14-15

When was the last time we fasted?  Do we really mean it when we fast?

In the Old Testament, the Israelites fast as a sign of penance.  In the book of Isaiah, God demands not simply fasting, but works of social justice as a sign of penance - letting the oppressed grow free, sharing bread with the hungry, and helping the homeless poor.

Jesus further perfected the motive of fasting to manifest one's relationship with God and more specifically with the saving action of Jesus.

Let us ponder whether all our actions fasting or any other activity possess this very intention of loving God and aligning ones life to the saving work of Jesus.  Only this way can we truly ascertain that every action is consecrated - that is, duly offered to the Lord.


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