February 24, 2023

Matthew 9:14-15

Welcome to the first Friday of this Lenten journey. Like most of you we are invited almost conditioned to start our fasts this Friday. Practicing Catholics will have some sea bass or some kind of fish as part of their/our fast. Fasting definitely has a way of opening up the spiritual life.

I am reminded when in was in Hukunsti, Botswana as a young missionary in training. We were in the desert, the kalahari desert to deepen our spiritual life. Living with the Bushmen was probably the most eye opening spiritual experience. On Friday I remember panicking and going to Fr. Novice Master”master we have no fish!” The wonderful Irish man buried his head in his hand and responded “we are in the freaking desert, prepare some antelope.” I thought he was very liberal with his spirituality. But!!!! Now I see.

My point is, spirituality has to make sense. If fasting in food makes you unbearable, the most Christian thing you can do is have a full belly and be kind. In fact Holy Mother Church says this about fasting. You should count all the money you have saved from the fasting and give it to the poor… collection box. Because when you fast, someone should feast. Fast on anger, feast on patience and understanding. Fast on greed, feast on generosity. This is a dance folks. If no one is benefiting from your fast then maybe think a little bit more on what we are doing. Love you. By the way, can we have stations of the cross when we get our own building.