20 Feb 26 | When the Bridegroom Is Present
Jesus identifies Himself as the Bridegroom, revealing that fasting belongs to longing, not to the joy of His immediate presence.
The Gospel: Matthew 9:14-15
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.”
Today’s Focus
In this passage, Jesus reframes the question of fasting by revealing Himself as the Bridegroom. Fasting, long practiced as a sign of repentance and longing, is not abolished but placed within a new context: the presence of the Messiah changes the rhythm of devotion. Drawing on covenant imagery in which God is the husband of Israel, Jesus subtly reveals His identity and signals that His coming inaugurates joy. Yet this joy carries within it the shadow of His future suffering, reminding the disciples that celebration and longing both have their place in God’s redemptive plan.
In the Margins
This passage parallels Mark 2 and Luke 5. It comes on the heels of Matthew the tax collector being called, where Jesus has been seen sharing a meal with sinners and tax collectors, and Pharisaic questions surrounding who Jesus is associating with. Now, the disciples of John the Baptist raise a question about fasting. This is not hostility or open questioning like we see with others, it is genuine confusion.
We know from other Gospel entries that these disciples practiced regular fasting and Pharisees would fast up to twice per week. It was a recognized act of covenantal fidelity. It was used for repentance (Joel 2:12), mourning (2 Samuel 1:12), intercession (Esther 4:16), and even preparation for divine intervention. The only fast commanded in the Mosaic Law was on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16). But by the first century, additional communal and voluntary fasts were common. If Jesus is serious about righteousness, why are His disciples not fasting?
Instead of answering directly, Jesus paints a wedding image. He does not dismiss fasting or its importance. Instead, He uses the opportunity to reframe the moment. In Jewish culture, weddings were among the most joyful communal events. They could last several days and were marked by feasting, not fasting. Jesus is foreshadowing His passion, but also telling that His presence is a joyful time for everyone. It should be celebrated, knowing that there will be time for mourning and fasting.
The imagery goes farther than making the point of joy. In Israel’s Scriptures, God is repeatedly described as the husband of Israel. It is seen in Hosea, Isaiah, and Jeremiah. The covenant between God and Israel is portrayed as a marriage. By invoking bridegroom imagery, Jesus draws upon covenant language traditionally reserved for God, subtly elevating His identity within Israel’s theological framework.
Through this passage we see Jesus acknowledging that His presence is a joyous occasion. This is true in our very lives. When we allow Jesus into our lives, we allow a light to burn that brings joy and goodness to the darkness. Jesus tells us that He is the way, the truth and the light. We must remember this and not be sad that He was crucified. He knew and foretold this happening. We should rejoice in His conquest over death and be thankful for His passion.
Reflection Question
Do I recognize Christ’s presence in my life as a source of joy, or have I reduced my faith to routine without rejoicing in the Bridegroom?
A Small Invitation
If this reflection helped you, consider sharing it with someone who may be carrying more than they were meant to.