Why Fast - Father Simon Says - February 20, 2026 [ENCORE]

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• (2:40) Bible Study: 
  • Isaiah 58:1-9a – While it may seem like a condemnation of fasting, this is not so as Jesus himself fasted. Taking up your cross and denying yourself means saying no to yourself. Freedom is the ability to do the right thing and that is the point of fasting, to be free and exercise freedom.
  • Matthew 9:14-15 – If your fasting makes you quarrelsome and difficult don’t bother with it. If your fasting gives you the freedom to be charitable that is good. Jesus talks about being the Bridegroom.

(16:08) Break 1

• (16:53) Letters:
  • Were there actually angels who had relations with humans? The word “Nephilim” means “fallen ones”.
  • Daryl - I was wondering about the DaVinci Code and wanted to know if Mary Magdalene the wife of Jesus? There is no history in the DaVinci Code.
  • Did Judas conspire with Jesus to have him crucified? No, that is nonsense. Be careful what you name your kids and don’t name your kids “Judas”.

(32:25) Break 2

• (33:29) Word of the Day: 
  • Sacrament
• (39:34) Phones:
  • Ed - How many times a day could I receive the Eucharist?
  • Gerard - About the Eucharist, in the Passion 2000 years ago, basically Jesus surrendered himself.   Does Jesus do the same thing at Mass.  Could you clarify?
  • Jane - In the Jubilee Year, what is the deal with indulgence? can you obtain one for yourself and another?
  • Nancy - Organizing a confirmation retreat, any advice on how to explain the sacrament to teens?