Let us pray with today’s Gospel Reading (Matthew 9:14-15)

Lord Jesus,
when questioned about fasting, You spoke of Yourself as the Bridegroom. You revealed that while the Bridegroom is present,
there is joy, but when He is taken away, then the time of fasting will come.

Today, in this sacred season, we recognize that we live in that holy tension, You have come, You have redeemed us, yet we await the fullness of Your Kingdom. And so we fast, not in sadness without hope, but in longing filled with love.

Teach us, Lord, the true meaning of fasting. Let it not be a mere outward practice, but a hunger for Your presence. When we abstain from food, may we remember our deeper hunger for grace. When we feel emptiness, may it open space for You.

Lord Jesus, Bridegroom of our souls, draw us closer to Your Heart. Purify our desires. Detach us from what does not lead to You. Make our sacrifices pleasing to the Father, united to Your own offering on the Cross. In this Lenten journey, Lord, may our fasting deepen our love, our prayer strengthen our communion, and our repentance prepare us for the joy of Easter morning. Stay with us, Lord, and make our hearts ready for the day when we shall rejoice forever in Your presence. Amen