Reflection Date: March 4, 2026 | Wednesday of the Second Week of Lent
Memorial of Saint Casimir
Daily Readings: Jeremiah 18:18-20; Matthew 20:17-28
Children of God:
Philippine bishops recently proposed “digital media fasting” as a concrete Lenten discipline.
They observed how many people spend long hours scrolling through social media, watching endless videos, and reacting to online debates.
They encouraged the faithful to reduce screen time in order to make more time for prayer and family.
Some bishops suggested turning off notifications during certain hours of the day.
Others proposed avoiding online arguments that spread anger and division.
They reminded Catholics that fasting is not only about food but also about habits that distract the soul.
They warned that too much exposure to digital noise can weaken attention, patience, and compassion.
They invited the faithful to use media more responsibly and intentionally.
They encouraged replacing screen time with Scripture reading and acts of charity.
In short, they called for a fasting not just of the stomach but of the screen.
In the gospel of Matthew, Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem and predicted His passion for the third time.
While He spoke about suffering and sacrifice, the mother of James and John asked that her sons sit at His right and left in His Kingdom.
The other disciples became indignant, perhaps because they also desired positions of honor.
Jesus then gathered them and taught that greatness in His Kingdom was not about authority but about service.
He declared that the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.
What are our inspirations for today?
First, discipleship is a call to carry our crosses.
The stage mother, the mother of James and John who requested for special seats was a reflection of the human heart that is still attached to recognition rather than redemption.
In our time, digital platforms often reward visibility. The more clicks, likes, and shares we get, the more important we feel. Yet this craving for approval can slowly become our measure of worth.
Now we are invited to examine our desires. Do we seek attention more than transformation? Do we measure success by applause or by obedience?
Digital fasting helps us carry our crosses quietly instead of chasing online crowns.
Second, discipleship is a call to live life for others.
Jesus contrasted worldly rulers who “lord it over” others with His way of servant leadership.
He said, “Whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant” (Matthew 20:26).
The culture around us often celebrates dominance and influence. Online debates can turn into competitions of who is louder or sharper.
But Jesus poured out His life instead of proving His power.
Today we reflect on how we use our influence. Do we use our voice to build up or to tear down? Do we dominate conversations or do we listen with compassion? And as we fast from certain digital habits, do we fill that space with acts of concrete service?
Children of God:
As we scroll less, may we make it an opportunity to serve more.
May this Lenten season reshape our influence into humble service.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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