A few days into Lent, maybe the ashes are still faintly visible, and the Church already invites us to go deeper. In this homily, we’re reminded that fasting isn’t just about giving something up or proving our discipline — it’s about real conversion of heart. Through the challenging words of the prophet Isaiah and the powerful example of Jacinta Marto and Francisco Marto, we see that sacrifice only has meaning when it flows from love — love for God, love for sinners, love for those who suffer. When Jesus calls Himself the Bridegroom, He reveals that our fasting is preparation for something beautiful: the Wedding Feast of heaven. We’re not depriving ourselves for nothing; we’re making room for Him. Lent isn’t about “Catholic dieting” — it’s about preparing our hearts for the joy we were created for.

On this second day of Lent, we’re reminded that following Jesus is a daily choice. In the first reading from the Book of Deuteronomy, God places before us life or death, blessing or curse—and in the Gospel, Jesus says, “Pick up your cross every day and follow me.” For those who first heard it, the cross meant suffering and humiliation, yet Jesus transforms it into the very path to life. Over time, the Church has come to understand that carrying our cross can mean martyrdom, sacrifice, patient endurance, or simply staying faithful in everyday struggles. This Lent, we’re invited to trust that whatever cross we carry—big or small—can be united to Christ and become the road to blessing and deeper life with Him.

Lent isn’t just about giving something up—it’s about walking with Jesus into the desert and letting Him work on our hearts. In this homily, we’re reminded that instead of asking, “What’s my plan for Lent?” we should begin with, “Lord, what’s Your plan?” A powerful story about a child who felt like a “nobody” becomes a beautiful reminder that God listens to every prayer. Drawing from Pope Leo XIV’s Lenten letter, we’re invited to fast, quiet the noise around us, and make room to truly listen to the Lord through Scripture.