Friday 8 March

Isaiah 58:1-9; Psalm 51; Matthew 9:14-15

Break every yoke

Fasting and acts of kindness are important, but Jesus asks us to think more deeply about what we are doing. Acts of generosity need to go hand in hand with acts of justice. Feeding the poor makes no sense if they are oppressed and cannot improve their lot in life. Isaiah says today – “let the oppressed go free”. Jesus knew that this was the deeper meaning of turning to Lord. Though the disciples celebrated while they were with him, they too would fast and give their lives in the service of others.