This sermon focuses on Jesus’ clash with the pharisees about the topic of fasting.
Jesus makes clear to the critical pharisees that now is not the time to fast. This is because he, the perfect bride groom has arrived on a mission to cleanse his bride, the Church. Therefore, now is the time to feast in Jesus presence!
The pharisees unfortunately have tried to mix the new glory of God brought in Jesus Christ with the old way of doing things. Jesus using analogies about clothing and wine skins urging them not to do this. Jesus is not to be simply added to or shaped by the old way of doing things. He ushers in a new way by which we can be transformed. This is found by fixing our gaze on him.
However, there is a place for the spiritual discipline of fasting until Jesus returns. This should be voluntary and private. This extra time in God’s presence will help us expectantly await his return, depend upon more, and help us hear from him.
Lord, thank you that you came as the perfect bride groom to redeem your bride, giving us great cause for feasting. Help us to fast in a way that glorifies you.
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