Matthew 9:14–15 WHEN THE BRIDEGROOM IS WITH US

Year A, Friday after Ash Wednesday

In today’s Gospel, people question Jesus about fasting. They notice that His disciples do not fast as others do. Jesus responds with a beautiful image: “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them?”

Jesus reminds us that faith is not meant to be gloomy or burdensome. At its heart, our relationship with God is like a wedding — a relationship of love and closeness. The Bridegroom, Christ Himself, has come to be with His people.

So why do we fast during Lent?

Fasting is not about punishment or proving our holiness. It is about love. When someone we love is important to us, we make space for them. We adjust our habits, our schedules, and our priorities. Lent invites us to make space again for Christ in lives that easily become crowded with distractions, worries, and routines.

Often our daily lives move at a fast pace. We are busy, tired, and constantly occupied. Without realizing it, God can slowly move to the background. Fasting helps us rediscover what truly satisfies the heart. It reminds us that no comfort, success, or possession can fill the deeper hunger within us — only God can.

Jesus says the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away, and then they will fast. Lent places us spiritually in that longing — helping us recognize how much we need Christ and preparing our hearts to rejoice more deeply at Easter.

True fasting, then, is not only about food. It may mean fasting from impatience, negative words, constant distractions, or habits that pull us away from God and from one another. Through these small sacrifices, our hearts become more attentive and more free.

Lent gently asks us: What do I need to let go of so that Christ can be more present in my life?

Question to Ponder: What “fast” this Lent will truly help me make more space for Christ in my daily life?

With Love and Prayers

Your Co-Traveler

Fr. Leo