GOSPEL READING: MATTHEW 9:14-15
Fasting was one of the pious practices of the Jews. Pharisees were very strict in observing this. They also expected everyone do likewise. Anyone who was not observing this was considered by them as a sinful person. Any religious leader was also encouraging his followers to observe this practice.
The Pharisees expected Jesus and his new group of followers to be faithful to this practice. They even challenged him for not doing so. Jesus response to him was quite interesting. Presence of God among people always called for celebration and not for fasting. When one has God with him, even if he fasts (without food), it is a celebration. Presence of God (Jesus) is the criterion.
நோன்பு இருத்தல் இஸ்ராயேல் மக்களிடையே இருந்த பக்திமுயற்சிகளில் ஒன்று. பக்திமுயற்சிகள் அனைத்தும் இறைவனைச் சென்றடைய. இறைவன் உடனிருக்கும்போது பக்திமுயற்சிகளின் தேவை கேள்விக்கு உட்ப்பட்டது.
