A Jesuit Catholic University
in Omaha, Nebraska, since 1878

[221] Isa 58:1-9a Ps 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 18-19 Matt 9:14-15

Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer The Daily Reflections

Today’s readings focus on fasting, a topic which is quite applicable to the season of Lent which we have just begun. I’ve been reflecting back to years past, and the various ways I fasted as a child for Lent: the year my entire family gave up sweets (we certainly looked forward to “cheat days” on Sundays!), the year my sister and I gave up watching TV, the year I didn’t have any snacks after dinner, etc. I remember reminding myself: “Okay, whenever you want (to eat sweets, to watch a show, etc.), don’t complain! Just remember why you’re fasting!” As the years went on, however, I realized that these methods of fasting simply weren’t enriching my faith – I’d be feeling grumpy and sneaking handfuls of chocolate chips!

The definition of fasting accepted in our society is similar to the fasting I practiced as a kid: “a period of abstention or self-denial.” In other words, to fast is to give something up. Today’s reading from Isaiah calls us to a very different form of fasting; a form which I believe is far more relevant to Jesus’ sacrifice and our faith as Christians. The reading is so beautiful and powerful, that I feel like I should quote a portion of it here:

“This, rather, is the fasting that I wish: releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke; setting free the oppressed, breaking every yoke; sharing your bread with the hungry, sheltering the oppressed and the homeless; clothing the naked when you see them; and not turning your back on your own” (Isaiah 58: 6-7).

What a beautiful season it would be if each and every one of us committed to this call. During the season of Lent, we are preparing for Easter; although the season is often seen as somber, I prefer to reflect on Jesus’ life. Jesus lived in a way which reflected the reading from Isaiah; he worked for justice, took care of the oppressed, and shared bread with many. I hope that this season of Lent will be a season focusing on all that Jesus is and calls us to be.  Let’s make this a season not of simply giving up out of tradition – let us rather focus on simply giving and living the call.