March 07, 2025 Friday after Ash Wednesday
Daily Readings: Isaiah 58:1-9; Matthew 9:14-15
Today, on the first Friday of Lent, we continue the journey that began on Ash Wednesday. The ashes placed on our foreheads reminded us of the call to “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.” Fasting and prayer are powerful spiritual practices, but Jesus invites us to something deeper—a fasting that transforms our hearts.
In the first reading, the prophet Isaiah reminds us of the fasting that truly pleases God. It is not merely about outward acts—looking solemn or giving up food while ignoring the needs of others. Instead, true fasting breaks chains of injustice, feeds the hungry, shelters the homeless, and clothes the naked. Isaiah’s message is clear: Lent is a time to love in action, showing compassion, justice, and mercy.
In the Gospel, Jesus speaks of fasting with a heart full of meaning. He says, “The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken away; then they will fast.” Our fasting today connects us deeply with Christ’s sacrifice. It is not a burden but a path to spiritual renewal, helping us recognize that we love the Lord more than sin, more than comfort.
Fasting can be done for a variety of reasons: to gain freedom from a bad habit, addiction, or vice; to share in the suffering of those who go without; or to grow in our hunger for God and the things of heaven. Let us strive to cultivate a deeper hunger for God, for His holiness, and for the abundant life He offers us.
Call to Action for Catholic Living: Fasting is more than giving up food; it’s about giving up sin and selfishness. Let us fast from gossip, anger, and indifference. May our sacrifices bring healing and light to the world, benefiting not just ourselves but others as well.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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