Fr. Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for Friday, 22nd Week of the Year

September 5, 2025, Luke 5:33-39

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/090525.cfm

Fasting and Wine Cloths

When asked about his disciples’ fasting, Jesus explained there would be a time when they would fast after his Ascension into heaven. He shares a parable about wineskins to help us understand the significance of fasting in our walk with Jesus. Fasting, in this context, is not just about abstaining from food, but also about preparing our hearts and minds to receive the teachings of Jesus.

What is the connection between wineskins and fasting? 

During our Lord’s time, people didn’t have glass, so they used wineskins to carry wine. Old wineskins were brittle and prone to cracking under pressure. They used new wineskins because they were elastic and could expand as the gas from fermentation built up. 

Well, like wineskins, we must ferment, too. Our minds and hearts need to expand so that we can carry Jesus to the world. No one who personally comes to know Christ Jesus can remain the same. None of us is perfect.

Consider how deeply we can become entrenched in our thoughts and attitudes. When we refuse to change, our hearts turn hard like an old wineskin. We become fragile and easily upset. Our hearts lack flexibility. It’s my way or the highway.

When we fast, we give up what is ours to become more like Christ. We crave all he offers us, both new and different. Fasting is not just a sacrifice, but a transformative journey that can lead us to become more Christ-like, like all the saints. Let us embrace this opportunity for spiritual growth with hope and inspiration. 

Gospel Challenge:

I love this saying of St. Padre Pio:

“If the people of the whole world could see the beauty of only one soul when it is in the grace of God, all sinners and unbelievers of this world would be converted.”

May each of us be that soul, empowered and responsible for spreading the grace of God to the world.

Peace be with you.

Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC

pastor@bscchurch.com

Peace be with you.

Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
pastor@bscchurch.com

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