LET YOUR FASTING REFLECT IN YOUR LIFE

The first reading and gospel reading of today both discuss the topic of fasting as a way of bodily mortification and penance for our sins. Many people mortify themselves to show that they are sorry for their sins, and the most common way of bodily mortification is fasting. 

In the gospel reading of today, Jesus tells us that this lenten season is the time for fasting because Jesus our bridegroom will be taken away from us. 
Nevertheless, the prophet Isaiah tells us in the first reading that we should not just fast because it is reccomended during the lenten season; our fast should reflect in the type of life we live. 

Our fast is useless if we continue to harbour and nurture hatred in our hearts instead of forgiving our offenders. Our fast has no meaning if we do not make genuine effort to refrain from sin. There is no need to fast if you cannot live in peace with your friends and neighbours, and consciously avoid evil and do good. May our bodily mortification of fast and abstinence this lenten season bear fruits in our lives. Amen.

*Fr Michael Osatofoh Eninlejie, MSP*