Readings: Isaiah 58:1-9a; Psalm 51:3-6ab, 18-19; Matthew 9: 14-15
In the reading from Isaiah, we hear the words:
“Why do we fast, and you do not see it? afflict ourselves, and you take no note of it?”
Often we are faced with the question “Why” and search our minds and hearts for answers.
Why war, why violence, why abuse, why sorrow, why catastrophes, why death? The world confronts us with many unanswerable “whys.”
Isaiah asks why we fast and why is our fasting unnoticed. We may want to ask ourselves, too, why do we fast? Are we pleased with ourselves and hope we are noticed? Sometimes our choices for fasting help us to feel in control: I will refrain from..........because I can control that.
Later in the reading, the Lord tells us to take an active role as we fast; to look towards others and not to ourselves. Is the Lord pleased that we fast to look good? Does the Lord really want us to stay away from that piece of chocolate?
Our call is to bind wounds, to share bread, to clothe those in need. In other words we are called to reach out to others in love and mercy. Perhaps the greater fasting happens when we least suspect: When an unexpected phone call carries with it a plea for help or when a distressed friend needs a listening ear. We may have to sacrifice our plans and our personal time when these needs arise.
“Then your light will break forth like the dawn.” (Isaiah)
Why do I fast? How can I be a light to others?
Reflection by: Sister Helen Moore, ASC (US Region)