Fasting in a time of trouble

The sacrifice of Lenten abstinence and fasting can sometimes be challenging, especially in a time of crisis in a culture of instant gratification.

Of course, that shows the importance of it.

Today’s first reading (Isaiah 58:1-9a) offers us the opportunity to reflect on the fact that Lent should not be just a time for “giving something up” but also for doing something more.

In these times of trouble, especially when food banks and so many charities are being stretched increasingly thin, these words of the Lord need to be heard and obeyed by us all.

This, rather, is the fasting that I wish:
releasing those bound unjustly,
untying the thongs of the yoke;
Setting free the oppressed,
breaking every yoke;
Sharing your bread with the hungry,
sheltering the oppressed and the homeless;
Clothing the naked when you see them,
and not turning your back on your own.

Then your light shall break forth like the dawn,
and your wound shall quickly be healed;
Your vindication shall go before you,
and the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard.

Then you shall call,
and the LORD will answer,
you shall cry for help,
and he will say: Here I am!