Summary: Jesus responded to inquiries about fasting by likening his presence to that of a bridegroom with his guests, suggesting that mourning through fasting was not suitable while he was with them. However, he acknowledged a future time of his absence when fasting would then be appropriate for his disciples.
Gospel Acclamation: Seek good and not evil so that you may live, and the Lord will be with you. (Amos 5:14)
The disciples of John approached Jesus and said, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast much, but your disciples do not fast?”
Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.”