In today’s first reading from the prophet Isaiah(58:1-9),God is speaking to the people about their fasting practices. God is angry with them because during their fast their focus is not on God. Since it is done halfheartedly, it does not function as a proper sacrifice. God relates to Isaiah what is truly desired.
“This, rather, is the fasting that I wish: / releasing those bound unjustly, / untying the thongs of the yoke; / Setting free the oppressed, / breaking every yoke, / Sharing your bread with the hungry, / sheltering the oppressed and the homeless; / Clothing the naked when you see them, / and not turning your back on your own” (emphasis mine).
This reading resonates with me, and maybe it will strike you in some way as well. Many of our family members are oppressed in our culture today. How can we work to set them free? There are many ways to seek justice and the call is different for every person. Since I have had several members of our family reveal that they are members of the LGBTQ community, I have resolved to speak out when someone begins to make negative comments toward this group. It is not easy for me to do this. I have had both negative and positive responses to my polite intervention.
Last year I was at a wedding and I was sitting with an old friend and his girlfriend. We were talking over old times with my brother and his wife and our conversation was filled with laughter. Then my friend started to make a derogatory comment about the woman who was officiating the wedding. I interrupted him quickly and said that I was not comfortable talking about that person. I told him that I have a son who is trans, and it is personal to me.
He paused and said he did not know about my son. He quickly told me that he is supportive of trans people. Our discussion flourished as his girlfriend told about her daughter who is gay. My friend shared some of the tribulations his son was going through. It turned out to be a moment of grace that I did not expect. For that slice of time I was able to break the yoke that hangs about the community of our loved ones. In making myself vulnerable, everyone felt comfortable sharing about their kids.
Is this an epic win for LGBTQ rights? Of course not. Am I always successful when I engage others in conversation? Absolutely not. But it is an example of doing what I can with the circumstances I am given. It helps me to remember to not “turn my back on my own.”
During Lent 2026 I invite you to consider your own fasting. Can you change your responses to those within your circle of influence to ease the way for the people you love? Maybe you are being called to take another path. Or maybe you are low on energy and you can help by reaching out to someone who needs a listening ear. God calls each of us in unique ways.
Remember to take care of yourself every day this Lent. Take some time for prayer, even just 5 minutes! Let the grace and peace of the Lord Jesus wash over you. Then listen! He will tell you what he wants you to do!
The Last Lap (and what comes next) 