Friday 12 February

Isaiah 58:1-9, Ps.51; Matthew 9:14-15

Fasting

Fasting, as with other forms of self-denial, is good for both body and soul. As an expression of repentance for our sins, it is part of the Christian Lenten tradition. But as Isaiah reminds us today, fasting only has value if it is a catalyst for loving deeds. In fasting we deny ourselves in order that we may be more open to the needs of others.