Is this not, rather, the fast that I choose:
releasing those bound unjustly,
untying the thongs of the yoke;
Setting free the oppressed,
breaking off every yoke?
Is it not sharing your bread with the hungry,
bringing the afflicted and the homeless into your house;
Clothing the naked when you see them,
and not turning your back on your own flesh? (Isaiah 58:6-7 NABRE)
These words of God to Isaiah explain the type of fasting he chooses, rather than the hypocritical fasting that was occurring without alignment with other actions. In other words, God wants us to fast as a sign of a personal change that leads us to help others in need. He does not want us to deny ourselves food, for example, while ignoring those who have no food.
And do you hear the echo of Jesus' final judgment (Matthew 25:31-46)? May we see clearly the connection between our fasting, our attitudes and actions toward those in need, and our final salvation.
Today, on this Friday after Ash Wednesday, I will continue my personal Lenten journey focused on the corporal and spiritual works of mercy which extend God's love to those most in need.
Saint Apollonia, patron of dentists and those with toothaches, pray for us.
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