Today, we are called upon to reflect on the first pillar of the Season of Lent-FASTING. The question that comes readily to mind is “Why is fasting difficult?”
In Isaiah 58:1-9a, the prophet Isaiah condemns the way the Israelites are fasting, pointing out that their fasts are not aligned with God’s intentions. The people are going through the motions of fasting, but their actions and attitudes are not pleasing to God. The prophet Isaiah points out why they are fasting wrongly:
1. Outward Ritual without Inner Change: The Israelites are engaging in the outward act of fasting but not changing their hearts or actions. They are fasting to make a show of piety, yet they continue to act unjustly and selfishly. In verse 2, it says, “they seek me daily and delight to know my ways,” but their hearts are not genuinely aligned with God’s will. Fasting is meant to lead to a transformation of character and behavior, not just a ritualistic practice.
2. Continuing Oppression and Injustice: Despite fasting, the people continue to oppress their workers and others (verse 3). True fasting, according to God, involves not just refraining from food but also stopping acts of injustice, such as exploitation or mistreatment of others. God desires that fasting should lead to a change in how people treat others—especially the poor and vulnerable.
3. Fasting without Compassion: The Israelites fast but fail to show compassion toward the oppressed or help those in need. They are criticized for focusing on their own appearance (verse 5) rather than using the fast as an opportunity to care for others.
4. Empty, Self-Centered Fasting: Their fasting is described as being self-centered, focusing only on themselves, and not truly seeking God’s will. They are more concerned about how their fasting makes them look rather than how it affects their relationship with God and others.
5. False Religious Posture: In verse 4, Isaiah calls their fast “a day acceptable to the Lord” in a sarcastic tone. They are fasting with the expectation that God will bless them, but they are not genuinely aligning their hearts and actions with what God values. They seek to use fasting as a tool to get something from God without actually living in accordance with His justice and mercy.
What does God want instead?
According to Isaiah 58:6-9a, God’s desire is for a fast that:
Loosens the chains of injustice, sets the oppressed free, and breaks every yoke (verse 6).
Shares food with the hungry and provides shelter for the homeless (verse 7).Clothes the naked and takes care of the needy (verse 7). Brings justice and acts of mercy toward others, reflecting God’s heart (verse 9).
Isaiah teaches that fasting should lead to a life of compassion, justice, and righteousness, not just a ritualistic exercise. True fasting is about humbling oneself before God and taking action to care for others, especially the marginalized.
Again, today, we are reminded of the Church’s teaching on CORPORAL WORKS OF MERCY:
The Corporal Works of Mercy are acts of kindness and charity that focus on addressing the physical needs of others, particularly in times of suffering. These actions are rooted in Christian teachings and reflect the way Jesus served others during his life. There are seven Corporal Works of Mercy, and they are:
1. Feed the hungry – Providing food to those who are starving or in need, ensuring that people do not go without nourishment.
2. Give drink to the thirsty – Offering water or other beverages to those who are dehydrated or lack access to clean water.
3. Clothe the naked – Helping those who lack proper clothing by providing garments or other necessary attire, especially in cold weather or difficult circumstances.
4. Shelter the homeless – Providing a safe place for those who are homeless or without a stable living situation, offering shelter or housing.
5. Visit the sick – Offering companionship, care, and emotional support to those who are ill or suffering, whether in hospitals, nursing homes, or at home.
6. Visit the imprisoned – Offering visits or support to those who are incarcerated, providing comfort and helping them maintain their dignity and well-being.
7. Burial of the dead – Ensuring that those who have passed away are treated with respect and given a proper burial, offering solace to grieving families.
These works are a way to practice compassion and love for others, especially those in dire physical need. They are considered fundamental ways to live out the message of Christ in daily life.
May all we do throughout this season be of benefit to others by first denying ourselves and following Christ.
Sr. Gifty Anastasia Blewu, SMMC (Sister Communicator)
