Friday after Ash Wednesday
Today we hear more about fasting. On Ash Wednesday, the gospel cautioned us about the way we fast. Fasting is not to be noticed by others but by God. Fasting is not an external, observable practice, performed for others to see, but rather a discipline that helps to direct us towards God.
Today in the prophecy of Isaiah we receive more instruction about fasting. The prophet’s word challenge: “on your fast day you carry out your own pursuits.” The prophet lists some elements of true fasting—setting free the oppressed, breaking every yoke, sharing your bread with the hungry, sheltering the oppressed and the homeless, clothing the naked, and not turning your back on your own. These sound familiar from the judgment seen in Matthew’s gospel. What is important here is that one’s effort at greater attentiveness to spiritual growth give way to greater charity and to greater concern for others.
This could mean letting go of resentments, for instance, or restoring the bonds of friendship with someone and sharing with others in need. These are among the effects of our fasting. These are things that will be seen by others, as outward fruits of our inner renewal. Our interior effort overflowing into greater charity is something that can happen year-round.
Reflection by Fr. Peter Ullrich, OSB
Posted in Articles for Lent, Lenten Resources