The first reading contains a hymn about Christ. In the first major portion of the hymn, Christ is praised as the image of the invisible God, that is, he manifests God's presence in his person. He is called the first born of all creation because everything was created through him and everything is subject to him. In the second portion, Christ is described as the starting point of redemption. He is the first to experience the resurrection and is therefore, the first-born from among the dead. Once again, he is preeminent in "all things".

The frequent use of the word "all" emphasises the cosmic dimensions of Christ's power and effect. The reconciliation which he brings applies to everything, whether on earth or in heaven. It is no wonder that while he was on earth, Jesus compared the present time of his ministry to a wedding, implying that this is a foretaste of the messianic banquet. Fasting as a sign of mourning is, therefore, inappropriate.

Jesus the Bridegroom is with us. Yet, many Christians live as though he is not. It is no wonder that Pope Francis said, "There are Christians whose lives seem like Lent without Easter" (Evangelii Gaudium, 6). Today, we should remind ourselves of our origin, our salvation and our destination, and that it is Jesus who has made it all possible. We should rejoice knowing he is in control of "all things", including our lives. We should rejoice with the psalmist as we cry, "Indeed, how good is the Lord, eternal his merciful love."