New wine in new wineskins

Once again in today's gospel (Luke 5:33-39), the Pharisees criticize Jesus and his disciples for not following the man-made traditions. Jesus responds with several examples that would have been very familiar to them. It was a custom that during a wedding feast which could last for a week, fasting was suspended as the joy of the occasion was celebrated. Jesus is like the bridegroom and his presence should also be celebrated with joy. In another example, he refers to wine which was a common drink and they all knew that new wine had to be kept in new wine skins. Jesus is teaching with authority that comes from his Father. ''The old wine is good,'' he says. But you have forgotten that the two ''old'' commandments are to love God and love your neighbour and are teaching that the main thing is to fast, to offer sacrifices and make sure that you wash your hands before eating. You have forgotten the words of Isaiah 1:11,17. '' I have had enough of burnt offerings and the fat of rams and fed beasts. Learn to do good, seek justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow.'' Thank you, Lord, for your true, new teaching for as the steward said at the wedding in Cana,''You have kept the good wine until now.''