"He stops wars all over the world; he breaks bows, destroys spears, and sets shields on fire!" “Stop fighting,” he says, “and know that I am God, supreme among the nations, supreme over the world.”
This teaching transforms our understanding of Lenten fasting. It is not primarily a weight-loss program or a test of willpower. It is not a way to earn God's favor. Christian fasting is a love-gift to the Bridegroom. It is the hunger of the heart for His presence.
Let us pray. Lord Jesus, divine Bridegroom, you are the joy of our hearts. During these days of fasting, increase our longing for your presence. May our hunger for food become a hunger for you, and our thirst become a thirst for your righteousness.
Gospel Reflection
Friday after Ash Wednesday (February 20, 2026) The Fast of Longing!
The disciples of John approached Jesus and said, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast much, but your disciples do not fast?”
This dual reality—presence and absence, feast and fast, joy and sorrow—defines the life of the Church. We live in the "already but not yet." The Bridegroom is risen and abides with us sacramentally, yet we await His final, visible return.