Jul 5 – Memorial for St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria, Priest
St. Anthony (1502-1539) studied medicine at Padua, receiving his doctorate at age 22. Working among the poor in Cremona, he felt called to the religious life. He was ordained at age 26; legend says that angels were seen around the altar at his first Mass. St. Anthony established two congregations that helped reform the morals of the faithful, encouraged laymen to work together with the apostolate, and frequent reception of Communion.
- Patron Saint Index
Gen 27:1-5,15-29
Mt 9:14-17
“Why is it that we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not?”
In today’s gospel reading, Jesus is confronted by John the Baptist’s disciples, who question Him about why He and His disciples do not fast as often as the devout Pharisees. Back in those days, strictly following the Law and traditions was considered very important. Therefore, Jesus and His disciples’ lack of frequent fasting made them appear ungodly by societal standards.
But Jesus explains the true purpose of fasting, which is meant for times of mourning or longing. Such practices are unnecessary when the bridegroom, that is, the Messiah, is present. There’s no reason for His disciples to be sad or to long for Him. Why would they mourn when it’s a time to celebrate? Why would they wish for the Lord to be near when He is already with them?
Today, we may not be as fortunate as the disciples to actually be in the physical presence of Jesus. However, Jesus is indeed with us all the time, in our hearts and in our midst, if we are sensitive to the movements of the Holy Spirit.
In the past, and perhaps still today, before significant retreats like the Conversion Experience Retreat (CER), the ministering team and everyone involved in service would fast once a week for the month leading up to the retreat. They also participated in communal prayer. The purpose of the fast was to intercede for all those attending the retreat, the Retreat Master, and the service team. The goal was for each person to receive and give as the Lord intended, serving with an open heart and ensuring that the retreatants would also receive with open hearts.
Fasting is a powerful way to humble ourselves before God. It allows the Holy Spirit to reveal our true spiritual condition, which could lead to brokenness, repentance, and ultimately a transformed life. Through fasting, we can experience a dynamic personal revival, enabling us to become channels of revival for others. This spiritual discipline aligns perfectly with the intent of our communal efforts before retreats, as we seek to serve and receive with open hearts, allowing God to work through us for the benefit of all involved.
As such, it becomes clear to me that fasting is not merely a religious obligation, but a profound spiritual practice that fosters humility, openness, and transformation. It is a way to prepare our hearts to encounter God more deeply and to be attuned to the workings of the Holy Spirit. Just as Jesus emphasized that fasting was not necessary when He, the bridegroom, was present, we recognize that our fasting today serves a greater purpose — to draw us closer to God and to intercede for others. By embracing this discipline, especially before significant spiritual events like the CER, we create a fertile ground for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully within us and through us. As we fast and pray, may we experience a personal revival that not only deepens our own faith, but also enables us to be vessels of God’s grace and love, bringing renewal and transformation to those we serve.
Brothers and sisters, let us draw closer to Jesus through the practice of fasting and prayer. Let us humble ourselves before Him, seeking a deeper connection and allowing the Holy Spirit to work within us. As we prepare our hearts for His presence, may we become instruments of His grace, ready to serve and uplift those around us. Let us embrace this call to spiritual discipline, fostering a community of faith that is vibrant, loving, and responsive to the Lord’s leading. May our collective efforts bring about a powerful revival, touching lives and hearts with the transformative love of Christ.
(Today’s OXYGEN by Geraldine Nah)
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your presence in our lives. As we engage in fasting and prayer, may Your Holy Spirit guide us, revealing our true spiritual condition and leading us to repentance and renewal. Strengthen our faith and draw us closer to You, that we may serve You with open hearts and be vessels of Your grace and love.
Thanksgiving: Lord, we thank You for Your unwavering love and presence in our lives. We are grateful for the opportunity to draw nearer to You through fasting and prayer. Thank You for the guidance of Your Holy Spirit and the transformative power it brings. May our hearts always remain open to Your will, and may we continue to grow in faith and love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
OXYGEN 
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