The message of today’s gospel can be a bit elusive. At first, one might think that Jesus is condemning fasting per se. In fact, after the crucifixion, fasting has a place in the Christian community as it can serve to remind us of our need for God’s love and mercy and of the power of God through Jesus for our salvation. In the Old Testament, fasting was a voluntary abasement during times of great stress or trauma. But Jesus is reminding his followers that his presence with them should be a reason for joy (“can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them?”)