Mark 2:18-22
And the disciples of John and the Pharisees used to fast. And they come and say to him: Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast; but thy disciples do not fast? And Jesus saith to them: Can the children of the marriage fast, as long as the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. But the days will come when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them: and then they shall fast in those days. No man seweth a piece of raw cloth to an old garment: otherwise the new piecing taketh away from the old, and there is made a greater rent. And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: otherwise the wine will burst the bottles, and both the wine will be spilled and the bottles will be lost. But new wine must be put into new bottles.
When questioned about fasting, Jesus explains that something new is happening through His presence. The images of new wine and new wineskins reveal that discipleship requires openness to God’s work. Sometimes we cling to old habits, assumptions, or comforts that prevent growth. Jesus invites us to embrace the new life He offers. Conversion is not simply about changing behavior but about allowing our hearts to be renewed. As we become more open to God’s grace, we discover fresh possibilities for faith, hope, and service in our daily lives.