Prayer:
O Holy Spirit, make me a new creation.
Imagination:
Imagine Jesus with the disciples and the Pharisees.
Context:
Jesus uses two images of cloth and wineskins to show that his Kingdom demands a totally new way of acting and thinking. Nobody sews new cloth on old garments or pours new wine into old wineskins.
Gospel Text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud.)
Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder those that attract you.)
- Jesus does not allow his disciples to fast. His Kingdom is new and contains greater blessings.
- He reveals an astonishing mystery. He is the bridegroom, the presence of God in their midst.
- The Bridegroom’s presence precludes all fasting at his wedding.
- Both images (new cloth and new wine) carry the same message. Jesus is God’s new presence and the former response to God is inadequate. Jesus’ Kingdom bursts these limited ideas.
- To be faithful to the Bridegroom, the disciples must seek the new wine of the Holy Spirit.
Affections: (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)
- Jesus, my faith is too small to receive you.
- You are such a gift. Why do I not rejoice always?
- You are the bridegroom, God in our midst. To you is all honor and glory.
- When you are present, I rejoice. Sorrow is cast out. Joy abounds.
- I will find new cloth, greater faith that can hold your blessings.
- Jesus, pour out the new wine of your Spirit.
Resolution: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)
+ I will ask, “What must I do to receive Jesus’ gifts.”
+ I will make Jesus my bridegroom. He wants to have everything.
+ I will ask for greater faith so I gain every gift of God.
Thought for the Day: (To recall your Meditation.)
How can the guests fast when the bridegroom is still with them?