Friday, September 7, 2012
1 Corinthians 4:1-5, Psalm 37:3-6, 27-28, 39-40, Luke 5:33-39
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/090712.cfm
IN THE FAST LANE
"They will surely fast in those days." -Luke 5:35
Today is Friday. It is the traditional day of the week to fast. As we fast, we can more deeply realize and appreciate Jesus' death for love of us. As we fast, we can prepare for the center of our lives, the communal worship of the risen Christ at Sunday Mass.
Fasting is such an explosively powerful calling that the very pattern of our lives must change prior to undertaking serious fasting (see Lk 5:36-37). Then fasting will transform our lives even more. The few pounds we may lose by regular fasting are a sacramental sign of amazing developments interiorly and internationally (see Pope John Paul II's encyclical letter, The Gospel of Life, 100). When we fast according to God's will, those bound unjustly are released, and the oppressed are set free (Is 58:6). In fasting, we can receive light, healing, vindication, and glory (Is 58:8). When we fast, we pray with power (Is 58:9), walk in wisdom and strength (Is 58:11), and even rebuild ancient ruins and ruined homesteads (Is 58:12). In fasting, we shall delight in the Lord and ride on the heights of the earth (Is 58:14).
Considering the glories of fasting, we would expect everyone to be begging God for the permission and privilege to fast. However, many Christians are ignorant about the place of fasting in God's plan, and many don't believe God's word on fasting. We must fast by faith, not by sight (2 Cor 5:7). Believe; love God; obey Him; fast.
Prayer: Father, teach me to pray and to fast.
Promise: "Men should regard us as servants of Christ and administrators of the mysteries of God." -1 Cor 4:1
Praise: Although Alice must carry an oxygen tank with her the rest of her life, she never lets that stop her from carrying out her many ministries to the Church and to God's people.
(For a related teaching, order our leaflet, The Secret of Fasting", or on audio AV 46-1 or video V-46.)
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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant my permission to publish "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from August 1, 2012 through September 30, 2012
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, June 22, 2012
The rescript is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.
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