Some of John’s disciples asked Jesus why His disciples did not fast. What’s interesting is the fact that they wanted to point out that they fast. They were basically saying why have your disciples not suffered like we have?
Jesus’ initial response is that it’s difficult to mourn for the bridegroom when he is still with you. The time will come, however, for the bridegroom to be taken away and when that happens they will fast. Jesus is revealing the plan for the first time, unfortunately no one truly understood what He meant.
Then Jesus uses this as a teaching moment. He says you wouldn’t be a new patch on an old piece of cloth because it will pull away and tear worse. You also don’t put new wine into old wine skins because it will bust the skins and ruin the wine. You put new wine into new wine skins. Jesus is teaching those standing there listening that He has come and changed the status quo. It’s not just about being obedient to a law anymore, but now it’s about being obedient through love of God and love of others. New way of thinking, new method of serving. Jesus made all things new.
Is it time for you to put behind you the old way of living, so you can take on a new way. A way that reflects Jesus? Loving others is not just a suggestion, but a command. Stop tryin to use your same old wineskins…the past is in the past. Start living for the now and the anticipation of what is to come.
A Journey With Jesus 