15 January, 2024 | Monday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time
Gospel Mk 2:18-22
The disciples of John and of the Pharisees were accustomed to fast.
People came to Jesus and objected,
“Why do the disciples of John and the disciples of the Pharisees fast,
but your disciples do not fast?”
Jesus answered them,
“Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them?
As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast.
But the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them,
and then they will fast on that day.
No one sews a piece of unshrunken cloth on an old cloak.
If he does, its fullness pulls away,
the new from the old, and the tear gets worse.
Likewise, no one pours new wine into old wineskins.
Otherwise, the wine will burst the skins,
and both the wine and the skins are ruined.
Rather, new wine is poured into fresh wineskins.”
Reflections:
The question posed to Jesus is about the discrepancy between his disciples and the disciples of John and the Pharisees when it comes to fasting. Jesus responds by explaining that fasting is not appropriate while the bridegroom is with them. He emphasizes that fasting need be done only when he is taken away from them. Jesus uses the analogy of a wedding feast to explain why fasting is not suitable while he is with his disciples. The presence of the bridegroom is a time of celebration and joy. In this Gospel Jesus brings about a radical transformation that requires a fresh perspective and openness to change. It challenges us to let go of rigid structures or traditions that hinder the work of the Spirit and embrace the new life and freedom found in Christ.
Activity:
Reflect on your time and purpose of spiritual practices, the joy and significance of Jesus' presence, the need for openness to the newness of the Gospel message.
Reflection: Sr Roveinai FSP
Voice: Sharlene Fernandes
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