Image by Anne Wipf
What is it that God requires of us? The careful construction of holy places in which to live apart from people who are ‘unclean’? The strict observance of religious ordinances? “You ‘humble’ yourselves by observing the motions of penance,” says the prophet Isaiah. “You dress in burlap and cover yourselves with ashes. And this you call fasting. But do you really think this will please the LORD?” No!“This is the kind of fasting I choose, that you:
What God requires of us goes beyond mere external rituals or acts of penance. Instead, the essence lies in genuine love, compassion, and kindness towards others. The passage from the prophet Isaiah suggests that true fasting in God’s eyes involves helping those in need, breaking the chains of injustice, and sharing with the less fortunate. It emphasizes the importance of humility, mercy, and selflessness as we strive to be better human beings.
Well said. Dear God keep us close to the Holy Spirit with big listening ears.
Absolutely! Thanks, Mitch!
My privilege, Frank.
Yes! ❤
as for chapter 83
Amen!
Isn’t that the truth!
To set free the oppressed and break every yoke has now become “Woke.”
Thank you, Jesus, for setting us free!
As always, a good word. If we consider that God looks on the heart and not on the outward appearance, it would change what we do.
There are so many things that keep us in bondage. Those who have set about to break these chains, whatever they may be, may not always intersect or align with shared beliefs, or denominational affiliation. But wherever there is oppression, or bondage, or a need for intervention, the spirit of true believers can be found working for the cause. 🙏🙏 Thanks for the word Mitch.
Amen to that, Nigel.
It is the heart of living, isn’t it and the image returns me to the favorite book of my childhood “The Adventures of Arab” by Louis Slobodkin, the escape of a carousel horse.
This resonates. Been thinking lately about people who don’t let others off the hook. I don’t mean letting a felon go free. I mean giving an adult child, an associate, a neighbor or a friend who has wronged you the room to grow with another chance. Or at least provide an open door. It’s easy to be self-righteous and cut someone out because they wronged you badly. But giving the relationship a different opportunity and way to develop over time can be as fruitful as it is mature.
I couldn’t agree more, Lisa.
Amen. Extend your hands to others.
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