https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/090426.cfm
Fasting and Wine Cloths
When asked about his disciples’ fasting, Jesus explained that there would be a time after his Ascension into heaven when they would fast. He shares a parable about wineskins to help us understand the significance of fasting in our walk with Jesus. In this context, fasting is not just about abstaining from food but about creating space for Jesus to fill with heavenly treasures.
What is the connection between wineskins and fasting?
During our Lord’s time, people didn’t have glass, so they used wineskins to carry wine. Old wineskins were brittle and prone to cracking under pressure. They used new wineskins because they were elastic and could expand as gas built up during fermentation.
Like wineskins, we must ferment as well. Our minds and hearts need to expand so we can carry Jesus to the world. No one who personally comes to know Christ Jesus can remain unchanged. None of us is perfect.
Consider how deeply we can become entrenched in our thoughts and attitudes. When we refuse to change, our hearts grow hard like an old wineskin. We become brittle and easily upset, and our hearts lose flexibility. It’s my way or the highway.
When we fast, we give up what is ours to become more like Christ. We crave all he offers us, both new and different. Fasting is not just a sacrifice but a transformative journey that can help us become more Christ-like, like all the saints. Let us embrace this opportunity for spiritual growth with hope and inspiration.
Gospel Challenge:
I love this saying from St. Padre Pio:
“If the people of the whole world could see the beauty of only one soul when it is in the grace of God, all sinners and unbelievers of this world would be converted.”
May each of us be that soul, empowered and responsible for spreading God’s grace to the world.
Peace be with you.
Love Your Neighbor!
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
www.bscchurch.com
www.rosminians.com
