Gospel Reading for March 7, 2025 – Matthew 9: 14-15
“GOOD WHILE SUPPLY LASTS”
The disciples of John approached Jesus and said, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast much,
but your disciples do not fast?” Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.”
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The disciples of John fasted while John was in prison. Perhaps it was for them, a form of sacrifice so that John may be released, or a form of repentance for the sins of Israel. How could they celebrate when John was not with them? The Pharisees fasted, perhaps much more than the disciples of John because as Jesus said, they needed to show off. They needed to show the people how pious they were, so fasting really had no value at all. But for Jesus’ disciples, they had the luxury of time to be with Jesus, the bridegroom. They enjoyed all moments with the Messiah while he was still with them, teaching, healing, etc.. Surely, even if the Bible does not mention it, they had moments of laughter and glee. After all, Jesus was also human!
Whenever there is a sale, we always see the phrase: “GOOD WHILE SUPPLY LASTS.” We then rush to the sale lest we may lose our chance of getting the discount. Although we cannot or should not compare Jesus to a sale, the point is, while he is still available to us, let us take advantage of the chance. Remember during the covid pandemic? It was really a time to fast especially for those who frequent the Church, receive communion daily, and visit the Blessed Sacrament often. Having to make do with online masses was really such a big sacrifice! Thank God, we’re back to normal. We have all the chances so let’s celebrate!
May the Lenten Season draw us ever closer to Jesus, our Redeemer!
