Daily Catholic Lectio
Fri, 7 March ‘25
Friday after Ash Wednesday
Isaiah 58:1-9a. Psalm 51. Matthew 9:14-15
Fasting and repentance
As we journey through this sacred season of Lent, today’s readings invite us to reflect deeply on the true meaning of fasting and repentance. God is not impressed by empty rituals or mere outward expressions of piety; rather, He desires a transformation of our hearts and our actions.
One idea: True fasting transforms lives
In our first reading, the prophet Isaiah delivers a powerful message from God: fasting is not merely about depriving oneself of food or engaging in external religious acts. True fasting, as God desires, is about justice, mercy, and love.
God challenges the people of Israel—and us today—to see that fasting should lead us to break the chains of injustice, share our bread with the hungry, and care for the vulnerable. If our fasting is disconnected from love and service, it is meaningless.
Jesus echoes this in the Gospel. When questioned about why His disciples do not fast, He reveals that fasting is not an end but a response to God’s presence. While fasting is a discipline, its purpose is to draw us closer to Him.
One sentiment: A heart of true repentance
Psalm 51 expresses the heart of true fasting and repentance: “Create in me a clean heart, O God.” This is the longing of a soul that understands the need for conversion.
Lent is not only about external sacrifices; it is about inner transformation. A contrite heart, open to God’s grace, is the true sacrifice that pleases Him. Let us ask ourselves: Is my Lenten observance changing me from within?
One call to action: Fast in a way that matters
Today’s readings call us to fast in a way that brings change—not just in ourselves, but in the world around us.
Are we fasting from food but failing to feed the hungry?
Are we avoiding meat but still indulging in gossip, pride, or selfishness?
Are we practicing rituals but neglecting relationships?
Lent invites us to fast not just from food but from anything that keeps us from loving God and our neighbour.
Lenten daily challenge: A fast of love
Today, let us choose one act of fasting that makes a difference—not just for ourselves, but for others.
Maybe let us fast from ‘binge watching’ on Instagram or YouTube shorts, and spend that time to heal a broken relationship, or to give extra time for our loved ones.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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