Lent is not "Let's Make a Deal"

Homily for Friday after Ash Wednesday

Isaiah’s language is rather strong today. He comes at the issue of fasting and unleashes several accusations against the people of Israel that negates all of their outward observances because they do not bring about inner conversion. They continue to carry on their business pursuits with the same callousness when it comes to the care of their neighbors.

The people to whom Isaiah is preaching seem to be approaching the required days of fasting and penance as if they were contestants on that popular game show, “Let’s make a deal.” If they carry out the days of fasting, they expect that God will reward them for their efforts. Of course, this is not what God is about. God is not some prize that can be won if we choose the right box or draw back the curtains on the right door. Fasting is not about rewards. Fasting is a matter of seeking reconciliation with God and with our neighbor.

The kinds of things that God asks of us through the prophet sound very much like the spiritual and corporal works of mercy. That can only mean one thing. If we wish to be reconciled with God, we must also be reconciled with our neighbor.

The Pharisees accuse the disciples of Jesus of failing in their religious duties because they do not observe the fast. Jesus reminds them that following him and obeying the commandment to love is a far more important obligation.

Fr. Lawrence Jagdfeld, O.F.M., Administrator