FRIDAY AFTER ASH WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2025

MASS READINGS:

GOSPEL

Matthew 9:14-15

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."

REFLECTION:

There’s a time and place for everything. At times, I feel indifferent and disconnected from the world around me. Is it overexposure, or perhaps depression? It's easy to feel as though nothing truly matters—then life jolts me awake to make me realize what is most important: God. The seasons may change, and I may feel—jaded in autumn, harsh in winter, chirpy in spring, and sunny in summer—but His love remains constant. When I look at the crucifix, it is undeniable. He has invested in us.

I’ve pondered whether I should fast for Lent, abstaining to make room for Him. Yet, I wonder—what truly is fasting? Food no longer brings enjoyment; everything tastes metallic, even ice cream. Eating has become less about enjoyment and more about self-discipline.

Lent, in particular, is a time to rid ourselves of bad habits and adopt new ones that draw us closer to God. In the Gospel, Jesus answers,"Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them?" Everyone’s journey is unique, so I wonder: is this the moment to fast, or to rejoice in His presence?

Instead of constantly grumbling about my pain, I find myself grateful that He trusts me enough to endure it. Recently, someone asked if I should stay home and attend Holy Mass online because of my symptoms. But in the end, without the Holy Eucharist, the pain would be unbearable. The Eucharist transforms my suffering; without it, the pain would be nothing more than torture. As I contemplate His passion, I remember that He suffered tremendously first.

Whether fasting to strip away the distractions or attachments that keep us from Him or rejoicing in His presence, as long as we put Him first, we can’t go wrong.