Bible: Isaiah 58:2-5

58:2 They seek me day after day;

they want to know my requirements, 1 

like a nation that does what is right

and does not reject the law of their God.

They ask me for just decrees;

they want to be near God.

58:3 They lament, 2  ‘Why don’t you notice when we fast?

Why don’t you pay attention when we humble ourselves?’

Look, at the same time you fast, you satisfy your selfish desires, 3 

you oppress your workers. 4 

58:4 Look, your fasting is accompanied by 5  arguments, brawls,

and fistfights. 6 

Do not fast as you do today,

trying to make your voice heard in heaven.

58:5 Is this really the kind of fasting I want? 7 

Do I want a day when people merely humble themselves, 8 

bowing their heads like a reed

and stretching out 9  on sackcloth and ashes?

Is this really what you call a fast,

a day that is pleasing to the Lord?

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