What does it mean to fast? At a time we need help most we go without food to bring us closer to God as we plead to Him in prayer. Yet what I learn from Isaiah is that fasting isn’t so much about going without; it certainly isn’t about being solemn or in pain. Fasting is about using our substance or efforts for someone other than ourselves. This is how we invite God into our lives.
In fasting we can turn away from our own needs and pay attention to another’s. In a time of cleansing, perhaps we can see with better clarity, looking outward. And somehow, in outward actions, our own needs can be met. This follows the law of the harvest - the seed you sow is what you will reap.
‘Saw a world of trouble ... I said, ‘God ,Why don’t you do something?’ He said ‘I did, I created you’.’
Do Something - Matthew West
‘Beauty for ashes’ implies that after our times of mourning will come a time of joy. The Hebrew term used for beauty in Isaiah 61:3 refers to a headdress or tiara. He tells of being anointed with oil, dressed in colorful robes. Is this a healing? A coronation? With Isaiah’s knack of writing many ideas within a word we can generally answer ‘Yes’ to all the variables we may see. First and foremost is shown the love that our Savior has for us.
‘He’s not sitting there shaking His head, writing you off, leaving you lost ... wishing He never went to that cross. No room for shame in His open arms, there’s beauty from ashes, so come as you are.‘
Heart of God - Zach Williams
Friends remind me often that life’s purpose, like God’s purpose, can be summed up in one word - Love. What does that look like for you? The Hebrew word hesed has been a bit of a buzz-word lately. It is often translated as mercy or lovingkindness. 1 Corinthians 13:4 says that Love is patient, Love is kind. What would it look like if we adopted patience and kindness into our habits? Would it change how we talk about others? Talk to others? Our stress level? Blood pressure? Anxiety? How we drive? What we see in the mirror? Hesed is an action of power that sounds life-changing!
‘ I wish I was patient, I wish that I was kind ... I won’t stop ‘til I see His kindness in me.’
His Kindness in Me - Youth Music Festival 2021
We practice following the actions of Jesus Christ, striving to be a little more like Him. Acting with Love and Hesed. We look forward to the triumphal day when our king returns to reign in peace.
‘After the scourges and harvest are over, We’ll rise with the just when the Savior will come.’
Now Let Us Rejoice - Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square
Acting in kindness, is promoting peace. Partnering with Christ to change your world.