Jesus Invites Us to Fast

"The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast" (Matthew 9:15).

Sisters, these days of fasting have come. Welcome to Lent! Jesus, the Bridegroom, has been taken away; He rose from the dead and has ascended to Heaven where He is seated at the right hand of the Father. Although we know that Jesus is sacramentally present with us in the Eucharist, the Bridegroom has been taken away, and the Church fasts.

Each of us received the Light of Christ at our Baptism. We ask ourselves a few questions: do you want your light to break forth like the dawn? Do you want your light to banish darkness? Do you want to live the Resurrection, beginning each new day with hope? Jesus invites us to fast.

Each of us is inclined to sin. Again, we ask: do you have wounds that need to be healed? Do you feel impatient with God’s timing? Do you feel overwhelmed by pain? Again, Jesus invites us to fast.

Each of us fails to take responsibility for our actions. Look within: do you blame others? Do you blame yourself? Do you want forgiveness? We know that Jesus invites us to fast.

When we fast, the Lord guards us with His glory. He listens to every thought and whispered prayer. He answers us and remains with us.

Jesus will show us how and when to fast. He will strengthen us with His grace. He delights in our sacrifices, no matter how hidden and small, and receives them with love.

Do not be afraid to fast; the Bridegroom is waiting for you with His feast!

Do not be afraid to fast; the Bridegroom is waiting for you with His feast!Click to tweet

This page provides resources on fasting and abstinence.

Rose Coleman is a contemplative in action who delights in all things beautiful. Her adventurous heart has traveled many places—from circumnavigating the globe on a ship during college to some years in the convent as a religious sister. Exuberant from her childhood, she is an elementary school teacher who learns so much from her students. You can find out more about her here. She is the author of our Blessed Conversations: Ways to Pray study found here.