Taking some time and being obedient with daily quiet time, prayer, and planning is a sure way to successfully get ready for the challenges each day brings. This day with God as we read Isaiah 58, let us allow God’s words to flow into our eyes and ears. Then into our heart. Let us ask for ideas along with the discipline that enables acts of kindness, compassion, and ways to help the needy. Let us pray for the Spirit to guide and provide as we have a vision of communities flourishing.

We note in today’s passage that those who want to impress with outward appearance of faith don’t like it when having their sins repeated to them. The people, though devout in their prayers and fasting, felt a sense of abandonment as though God had turned a deaf ear to their pleas. They seemed to follow all the prescribed rituals, attending worship services regularly, giving off an impression of unwavering faith. However, their outward appearances did not align with their inner lives and personal actions.

The crucial element they missed was understanding that God desires authenticity. Faith isn’t just about the ceremonies and the outward displays of devotion; it goes much deeper. God’s true desire is for believers to embody their faith in their daily lives, showing genuine compassion and care for others.

A proper fast, in God’s eyes, extends beyond mere abstinence from food. It includes extending a helping hand to those in need, providing food and clothing for the poor, offering shelter to the homeless, and showing compassion to all. It is about giving practical help to those in need and ensuring that their faith is reflected in their actions.

Moreover, part of this authentic devotion involves spreading knowledge about God’s Way, offering information and instruction to guide others. It’s about living a life that mirrors the teachings and compassion that faith embodies.

In essence, the real call to faith is about aligning one’s personal life with the word of God, ensuring that actions speak louder than words or ceremonies. It’s about living out the true meaning of devotion through compassionate, practical, and selfless acts.

There are many ways to do this. Volunteering time for organizations like Habitat for Humanity to help provide affordable home ownership. Giving to the local United Way to help those in the community. Also, giving to or volunteering for Meals on Wheels to help the needy by delivering food to older adults and individuals with disabilities who may face difficulty when trying to prepare meals for themselves.

This day God, we come to You for direction. Compel us into action so we are filled with joy because of our love of others just as You first loved us. Jesus went to the cross for us so the least we can do is do our part to help fix things. We can endure a little distress knowing that You will bless. The world is a broken place but because of Your grace in Christ, we can be a co-worker to fix things as our devotion shows up in who we are and what we do in Jesus’ name. Amen.