It is on 16th February 2024. We reflect on Isaiah 58:1-9 and Matthew 9:14-15. 

We need to go through a personal pain in giving.

Our fasting must align our hearts to the heart of God. The inner light begins to glow only by sharing and giving what we have to the needy. We need to go through a personal pain in giving. When we are giving from our abundance, we are not giving at all. Our giving must make us feel the pinch of pain and it needs to be done quietly and privately. 

“The kind of fasting I want is this: Share your food with the hungry and open your homes to the homeless poor.” (Is.58:6). 

Our works of mercy are not only pleasing to God when done very silently and secretly, they also bring light and dispel the darkness created by our sinfulness and selfishness. 

Justice and charity must prevail in all we do and say. 

The light is none other than Christ himself who will rise from our unbiased charity. Isaiah calls for a fast, not from food, but from affluence, indifference, and privilege so that the community of faith might live in harmony with God. 

Our fasting, prayer, and penance must bring peace, humility, and happiness within ourselves and around us. Our giving needs to come from the depths of our souls. 

The responsorial Psalm prays, “A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.” (Ps.51:19b). 

Does our fasting relate to our relationship with the Lord?

The Gospel reminds us that our fasting has something to do with the relationship and love we have for the Lord himself. The fragrance of our sacrifices pleases the Lord and fills the souls of the needy. 

“The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” (Mt.9:15). 

The devil takes advantage of the slackness of our piety. Let us be careful with our spiritual efforts during this Lent. Let our efforts make us come closer to God and make the needy thankful to the Lord because of our charity and Lenten sacrifices. 

May you have a good day.