Matthew 9:14-15 NRSVue
14Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?” 15And Jesus said to them, “The wedding attendants cannot mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them, can they? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.
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Reflection on Matthew 9:14-15
Inspiration from 2027-02-12 Daily Prayer
Today’s passage is part of a series of interactions between Jesus and various groups who question and challenge him: the teachers of the law accuse him of blaspheming, the Pharisees question the company he keeps (tax collectors and sinners), and now John the Baptist’s disciples take issue with Jesus’ disciples over their lack of fasting. There is growing fear and confusion about Jesus, but with each challenge he is happy to engage with the questions.
Jesus’ response to the question about fasting is clear: his disciples do not need to fast or mourn because he is with them. The Messiah whom they have been awaiting is here, and the gift of his presence brings joy. There is a time for everything, but whether feasting or fasting, our hearts should be centred on Christ.
Further reflection
The Pharisees and the disciples of John fasted several times a week. Fasting shows self-control, it is a symbol of mourning, and it purifies the heart. Most of all it expresses an inner hunger for God. Here Jesus uses the notion of fasting to reveal that the God whom the Jews hunger for has arrived. Rejoicing not mourning is the appropriate response to the presence of divine mercy revealed in Jesus.
Lord, this Lent let me feast with gratitude for your merciful love, and let me fast from oppressive behaviour towards those around me. May my prayer and my fasting reveal my inner hunger for you.