Friday after Ash Wednesday – 16th February 2024 — Isaiah 58,1-9; Mt 9,14-15
Fasting in Love
The first reading focuses on the theme of fasting, measured as the primary act of repentance. The prophet Isaiah today presents with two different types of fasting. The first kind is hypocritical fasting. This is some outward appearance of fasting, but, at the same time, tolerates injustice and neglects the needs of the poor. When the hypocrite asks God why He is ignoring their penance and fasting, God responds that while they are fasting, they are doing evil things, like exploiting others and fighting with others. Due to this, God asks, “Is this really an acceptable fast?” Isaiah highlights that the true type of fasting is that God truly desires external fasting to go hand in hand with love for our neighbour. Our fasting is useless, if we continue to turn our back on those in need around us. We learn in the New Testament, that when we help the oppressed, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and shelter the homeless, we are doing these things for Christ. These deeds of righteousness, justice and charity are manifested as true acts of fasting. Indeed, Isaiah promises blessings for those who care for the poor and oppressed. Fasting should allow us to empty ourselves so that we can be filled with God’s love and God’s presence, which in turn we share with others.
