Sometimes we can fall into doing spiritual practices as a way of showing off or competing with others. I’m thinking that when Isaiah wrote this passage below, spiritual pride must have been running rampant:
This bible passage says it all. What good is eating less if you withhold food from the hungry? What good is being slender and good-looking if you treat others with disdain? What good is fasting if you quarrel and fight and “strike with a wicked fist”?
I suggest you reread what Isaiah has to say, slowly. Write it in a journal, or write it “in your heart.” Consider how to put it into practice in your life. . . at least in one little action each day or each week.
Until next time, Amen!
P.S. Coming up next week: Lenten practice of almsgiving