Daily Gospel Reflection for February 16, 2024

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Matthew 9:14-15

'Tis the season to fast with intensity. I’ve always struggled with fasting due to a tendency toward low blood sugar levels. When I start shaking and get a headache, I’m done for. I’ve always settled for just the minimum levels of fasting that the Church asks of us. But I know I’m missing out on something powerful.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, in paragraph 1438, says, “The seasons and days of penance (Lent, and each Friday in memory of the death of the Lord are intense moments of the Church’s penitential practice.” I had never before noticed the word "intense." Headache or not, I'll push the limits this Lent. Our Church and our world need great sacrifices!

Pope Benedict XVI once said, in a Lenten homily in 2009, “Voluntary fasting enables us to grow in the spirit of the Good Samaritan, who bends low, and goes to the help of his suffering brother."

The sacrifice of fasting from food can free us from our dependence on earthly possessions and help us grow in holiness. Fast with intensity this Lent, and offer up your spiritually-enhanced prayer for those who truly suffer from hunger.

Ponder:

Do I trust that the Holy Spirit guides us through the teachings and instruction of the Catholic Church and practice my faith accordingly?

Pray:

Help me, Holy Spirit, to live a life of daily sacrifice and love by taking full advantage of the teachings of the Catholic Church.

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Fast with intensity this Lent and for some spiritually-enhanced prayer. #DailyGospel

Copyright 2024 Charlene Rack