In today’s Gospel I see that people who are sincere in their efforts to follow the Lord can easily disagree on the manner to do so. The pharisees and the disciples of John stressed fasting, accusing the followers of Jesus of being lax in this practice.
Jesus certainly did not disagree with the worthlessness of fasting. But He emphasized that fasting and feasting cannot achieve their purpose if separated from justice and charity in bringing one closer to Him. So, when He is joyful, I share in that joy; when suffering and sorrowful, I take on those sentiments, and I pray for those who do not agree.
Conclusion: things I resolve to do or to give up during Lent are not taken on for moral reasons, but only as means to unite myself more closely with Christ. For example, in order to unite myself later with Him during His passion, I decide now to go more against my selfish and sensual inclinations.
Hope is the virtue that urges me to push on to Easter. I can participate more fully in His victory if I unite myself with him in his joy, sufferings and sorrows along the way.