The third day of Lent and our second fast day

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ: It is already the third day of Lent and our second fast day. Today’s Gospel (Matthew 9:14-15) tells us that, “The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and they will fast.” Some people believe that fasting is a form of punishment or reconciliation for our sins. It is quite the contrary, fasting is an opportunity for us to come closer to Christ. Our Lenten fast should be viewed in light of our deepest human desire; to search for God and for the fullness of human life. Jesus, who was fully human, taught us how to become “fully human,” to become united with God. We fast from our earthly nourishment so we eat of our spiritual nourishment. After receiving the Holy Spirit, Jesus went into the desert to fast for 40 days as way of experiencing the greatest food of all, God’s love through the grace of the Holy Spirit. When we fast, we are seeking Jesus with all our hearts. In Paul’s Letter (2 Cor 12:10), he tells us, “Therefore, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and constraints, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak, then I am strong.” When I am weak, I give up the barriers that keep me from Christ. I am more likely to turn to Christ during a time of need then when I am satisfied with earthly items. Use this day of fasting to bring you closer to Christ. A simple prayer. “Lord Jesus, I believe that you are with me, but my vision is clouded by so many other demands, dreams, and desires. By your spirit, help me to fix my heart on you so that I can find you. Lord, I want to be filled with your Love.” Hopefully, you have received a postcard in the mail regarding the next four weeks of Senior Sundays. Andy Dommert has prepared four great sessions. Please come after Life Teen Mass and celebrate with us. Yours in Christ Michael Marcon