Gospel
18 The disciples of John and of the Pharisees were accustomed to fast. People came to Jesus and objected, “Why do the disciples of John and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” 19 Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast. 20 But the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast on that day. 21 No one sews a piece of unshrunken cloth on an old cloak. If he does, its fullness pulls away, the new from the old, and the tear gets worse. 22 Likewise, no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the skins are ruined. Rather, new wine is poured into fresh wineskins.”
Historical Background
Mark 2:18-22 recounts a moment when people question Jesus about why his disciples do not fast, while the disciples of John and the Pharisees do.
In first-century Judea, fasting was a significant spiritual discipline, commonly practiced by devout Jews, especially by groups like the Pharisees. It was often understood as a sign of devotion, mourning, or repentance. The question posed to Jesus reflects the expectations and customs of the time, highlighting the visible differences between Jesus’ followers and other religious groups.
Theological Context
In response to the question about fasting, Jesus uses the imagery of a wedding feast, describing himself as the bridegroom. He explains that it is inappropriate for the guests to fast while the bridegroom is with them, implying that his presence brings a time of joy rather than mourning. Jesus then speaks of new cloth on old garments and new wine in old wineskins, emphasizing that his message and mission are something radically new that cannot be contained within old frameworks.
Theologically, this passage points to the newness of life and relationship with God that Jesus inaugurates, contrasting with the old covenant practices and expectations.
Learning Lessons
Today’s gospel according to Mark 2:18-22 is a passage where Jesus addresses questions about fasting and introduces the concept of newness in His teachings.
Flexibility in Tradition: Jesus emphasizes that His followers are not bound by old traditions if they hinder the new work He is doing. This teaches us to be open to new ways of thinking and living that align with God's will.
New Wine in New Wineskins: Jesus uses the metaphor of new wine needing new wineskins to illustrate that His teachings and the new covenant He brings cannot be contained within the old structures of Judaism. This encourages us to embrace change and be willing to adapt to new spiritual insights and practices.
Joy in Following Christ: The passage highlights that following Jesus brings joy and celebration, not just ritualistic observance. This reminds us that our faith should be a source of joy and not just a set of rules to follow.
Understanding the Times: Jesus points out that there is a time for fasting and a time for feasting. This teaches us to discern the appropriate times for different spiritual practices and to be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
These lessons encourage us to be adaptable, joyful, and discerning in our spiritual journey.
Reflection for the Day
Today, Mark 2:18-22 invites us to consider how we approach spiritual practices and traditions. Jesus challenges us to recognize his presence as transformative, bringing new ways of living and relating to God.
Are we holding onto old patterns out of habit, or are we open to the newness Christ offers? This passage encourages us to embrace change and joy in our faith journey, trusting that Jesus brings fullness of life that cannot be limited by outdated forms or rituals. As we reflect, may we seek to be flexible wineskins, ready to receive the new wine of Christ’s spirit and grace in our lives.
Poem
In ancient wisdom, truth is found,
Where old and new in balance bound.
No one pours new wine in skins,
That age and wear, where cracks begin.
For if they do, the wine will burst,
And both are lost, a fate accursed.
But new wine seeks a vessel pure,
Fresh skins to hold, to age, endure.
So too our hearts, our minds, our souls,
Must shed the old to reach new goals.
Embrace the change, let go the past,
For only then can growth hold fast.
In life, in love, in dreams we chase,
New wine in fresh skins finds its place.
Renew your spirit, cast off the old,
And let your story be retold.
Prayer
Lord Jesus,
You teach us with wisdom profound, that new wine must find fresh skins, lest the old be torn and both be lost. Grant us the grace to embrace renewal, to shed the old and welcome the new.
Pour Your Spirit into our hearts, that we may be vessels worthy of Your love. Transform our minds, renew our souls, and fill us with Your divine grace.
Help us to let go of past burdens, and to trust in Your plan for our lives. May we be ever open to Your guidance, and ready to receive Your blessings anew.
In Your holy name, we pray,
Amen.
Pericope:
II: The Mystery of Jesus
THE QUESTION ABOUT FASTING
Mark 2:18-22
Gospel Acclamation
The word of God is living and effective, able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart.
Reflection Source:
Published:
January 20, 2025, 8:12 AM
