Some people try to find favour with God or specially honour Him by fasting, giving to the poor, and praying. This is commendable. The gospel went to Gentiles because of a Gentile who did this. Compassion, justice, and devotion are essential principles that bring both personal fulfillment and positive change to society. True faith is demonstrated not only through personal discipline but also through acts of kindness, such as caring for the poor, providing shelter, and offering hospitality to those in need. Isaiah 58:6-7 emphasizes that the kind of fasting God desires is to “loose the chains of injustice… to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter.” Practical efforts to support the vulnerable reflect a deep sense of moral responsibility and align with the highest values of love and service.
Consider the experience of a poor traveler arriving in a city with no free shelters, no available park benches, and only expensive cafés and restaurants for refuge. Such a situation highlights the struggles of those who are homeless or financially burdened. A meaningful way to honor God is to seek ways to alleviate these hardships—perhaps by advocating for more public shelters, setting up seating areas that provide protection from the elements, or supporting organizations that provide food and temporary lodging. If building such facilities is beyond your means, consider smaller but significant acts of kindness, such as volunteering at a shelter, donating to charities that house the homeless, or even offering someone a meal. These tangible acts of mercy align with the fasting that God values more than mere self-denial.
Setting aside time for rest and spiritual reflection can also be a meaningful practice, offering a chance to reconnect with faith and purpose. Isaiah 56:2-7 highlights the blessings of keeping the Sabbath, emphasizing that it is not only for Israel but for all who desire to honor God. While not always possible for everyone, observing a day of rest can serve as a source of renewal when approached with wisdom and balance. However, such practices should never come at the cost of family harmony, respect for others, or the broader call to justice and mercy (Isaiah 1:17).
Ultimately, faith and devotion are best expressed through actions that uplift others, promote peace, and contribute to the well-being of the community. As Isaiah 32:17 states, “The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever.”
