Our gospel today Matthew 9: 14-15, Jesus is asked why his disciples don’t fast like everyone else. Jesus then says “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast.”
Jesus refers to himself as the bridegroom, and the disciples as the wedding guests. Jesus’ presence demands celebration, so fasting and mourning are not appropriate with him in their midst. Fasting was done for many reasons, and one of them was for the death of a loved one. When Jesus is gone, his
disciples will fast. We hear of a similar story with Martha and Mary. Mary spent time with Jesus while Martha was distracted with all the preparations. When Martha complained about Mary not helping her, Jesus told Martha that Mary chose the better way.
What can we learn from today’s Gospel? Are we busy “doing” things for God, but he really wants us “being” with him and celebrating his presence? We know what Jesus prefers. This lent, let us practice this better way. Let us stop and be with him, and celebrate that time in his presence.
DeColores, Deacon Kevin
