“Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, "Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?" Jesus replied, "Can the bridegroom's companions grieve while the bridegroom is with them? Days will come when the bridegroom is taken from them, and then they will fast."”
Matthew 9:14-15
Lumin’s Faithful Translation
The setting
In first-century Judaism, devout groups like John's disciples and Pharisees fasted regularly, twice weekly, as acts of piety amid Roman occupation. Jesus' table fellowship with outcasts celebrated God's kingdom like a wedding feast. This challenge came as his followers ate joyfully, highlighting the shift from ritual to relational faith. Jesus reveals himself as the bridegroom, his presence ushering joy over mourning; yet he foretells his departure through death, making fasting a fitting response of longing. In Lent's third week of fasting and simplicity, this invites us to strip away excess, fast penitentially yet hopefully, yearning for Easter's reunion.
Reflection
Today, consider areas of clutter in your life—fast from one intentionally. What longing for Christ does it awaken, and for what simplicity are you grateful?
A prayer
Lord Jesus, bridegroom of my soul, teach me to fast not from duty but from love, simplifying my heart amid absence until your rising fills me with joy. Amen.
