A Message on True Fasting (06/21/'24)

A Message on True Fasting Dear friends, As we reflect on the true essence of fasting, let's turn our hearts to the words of Isaiah 58:6-9. The kind of fasting that God desires is not merely abstaining from food or personal sacrifices, but it is deeply rooted in acts of justice, compassion, and mercy. "The kind of fasting I want is this: to remove the chains of oppression and the yoke of injustice, to let the oppressed go free, and to open your homes to the homeless poor. Break the bonds that bind the weak, lift the heavy burdens of those in need, extend your hands to help your own, and do not turn away from your kin." In this passage, we see a divine mandate that calls us to action. True fasting involves breaking the chains of oppression, lifting the burdens of the weak, and offering our homes to the homeless. It is about extending our hands to help our relatives and not turning away from those in need. "Then, like the morning sun, My favor will shine upon you, casting away the shadows of despair. Your wounds will be swiftly healed, for in your acts of compassion, you will find your own restoration. My presence will surround you always, a constant companion in your journey." When we engage in this kind of fasting, God's favor shines upon us like the morning sun, illuminating our path and casting away shadows of despair. Our wounds are healed swiftly as we find restoration in our acts of compassion. His presence surrounds us, offering constant companionship in our journey. "When you call, I will answer; when you cry, I will say, 'Here I am.' In the light of your compassion, My glory will be revealed. Your prayers will not fall on deaf ears, for they will be the prayers of the righteous, the echoes of a heart aligned with My will." Our prayers, born from a heart aligned with God's will, do not fall on deaf ears. When we cry out, He answers. In the light of our compassion, His glory is revealed. Let us embrace this call to true fasting. Let us live lives of service, attuned to the cries of the oppressed, and ready to lift and heal those in need. In doing so, we will find favor, healing, and peace. And through our faithfulness, God's kingdom will be made manifest on earth. May we strive to embody this divine mandate, living out the true fast that pleases God. Blessings, Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 21, 2024)