Diane Levy
“No, this is the kind of fasting I want: Free those who are wrongly imprisoned; lighten the burden of those who work for you. Let the oppressed go free, and remove the chains that bind people. Isaiah 58:6 NLT
Fasting is practiced in many religions, such as Ramadan (Muslim fasting), Lent (Christian fasting), and Yom Kippur (Jewish fasting), which often involve abstaining from food or certain types of food for spiritual purposes.
There are benefits to fasting from foods.
Weight Loss and Improved Metabolism: Fasting can help reduce calorie intake, leading to weight loss. It may also enhance metabolic health by improving insulin sensitivity.
Enhanced Brain Function: Some studies suggest fasting can improve brain function, potentially protecting against neurodegenerative diseases and promoting clarity and focus.
Regulates Blood Sugar Levels: Fasting may help lower blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance, which is beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.
Improved Heart Health: Fasting can lead to lower blood pressure, reduced inflammation, and improved cholesterol levels, all of which contribute to better cardiovascular health.
May Reduce Chronic Inflammation: Some studies indicate that fasting can reduce markers of inflammation, which is linked to various chronic diseases.
(It is crucial to approach fasting carefully and consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are pregnant, to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for you.)
Our verse today suggests that true fasting, the kind that God approves of, involves actions that reflect justice and righteousness. It’s not just about abstaining from food but about actively pursuing justice and mercy.
Isaiah emphasizes that genuine fasting involves addressing social issues such as oppression and injustice. It calls for actively working to relieve the suffering of others and to promote fairness and equity in society.
Fasting should lead to tangible outcomes in the lives of others. It involves breaking the chains of injustice and oppression, symbolized by freeing those who are oppressed and burdened by unjust systems.
Beyond its social implications, true fasting is seen as a means of spiritual transformation. It involves a change of heart and actions that align with God’s will for justice and compassion.
God values sincere acts of compassion and justice over empty rituals. It challenges us to align our fasting practices with genuine care for others and righteous living.
Overall, Isaiah 58:6 encourages a holistic understanding of fasting that integrates spiritual devotion with social responsibility. It emphasizes the importance of living out one’s faith through actions that seek justice, mercy, and compassion in the world.
–Diane (blog.peacebewithu.org)
