The Question about Fasting

The texts in the Roman Catholic Lectionary today bring the question of “holy behaviour” to mind. The Pharisees are shocked, according to Luke’s Gospel that Jesus disciples eat and drink and are not fasting and praying as the disciples of other religious leaders have done in the past. The activities of pray and fasting are essential for development of a full spiritual life. These practices are followed by believers of many creeds. Jesus is pointing out that there are other important aspects to intimacy with the Divine. This communion is with the transcendent power of the Creator. It is beyond our understanding and certainly our control. We are invited to rejoice in this relationship. Luke compares it to the company of the bridegroom prior to the wedding. The psalmist exhorts us to be in communion with the Divine. The peace, joy and sense of righteousness is not achievable in any other way.