Not So Fast.

During yesterday's morning services, Pastor Sam continued his series on prayer and fasting. We took time to reflect on Isaiah 58:6-9a.

Let's re-read those verses today, keeping in mind some of the questions that were raised during the sermon:

• Are we, intentionally or unintentionally, supporting oppressive systems by our personal actions?
• Are our prayers in alignment with God's will, or are we attempting to move God towards doing our will?
• Are our desires selfless, or are they selfish?

Isaiah 58:6-9a (New International Version)

Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter-- when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard. Then you will call, and the LORD will answer; you will cry for help, and He will say: Here am I.