Day 15 - Lent 2026

“Here is the way I want you to fast.

“Set free those who are held by chains without any reason.

    Untie the ropes that hold people as slaves.

Set free those who are crushed.

    Break every evil chain. 

Share your food with hungry people.

    Provide homeless people with a place to stay.

Give naked people clothes to wear.

    Provide for the needs of your own family.

Then the light of my blessing will shine on you like the rising sun.

    I will heal you quickly.

I will march out ahead of you.

    And my glory will follow behind you and guard you.

    That’s because I always do what is right.

You will call out to me for help.

    And I will answer you.

You will cry out.

    And I will say, ‘Here I am.’

“Get rid of the chains you use to hold others down.

    Stop pointing your finger at others as if they had done something wrong.

    Stop saying harmful things about them.

Work hard to feed hungry people.

    Satisfy the needs of those who are crushed.

Then my blessing will light up your darkness.

    And the night of your suffering will become as bright as the noonday sun.

I will always guide you.

    I will satisfy your needs in a land baked by the sun.

    I will make you stronger.

You will be like a garden that has plenty of water.

    You will be like a spring whose water never runs dry.

Your people will rebuild the cities that were destroyed long ago.

    And you will build again on the old foundations.

You will be called One Who Repairs Broken Walls.

    You will be called One Who Makes City Streets Like New Again.

Isaiah 58:6-12 NIRV

Why do I Fast?  Fasting deepens my connection with God and enhances my spiritual awareness. God instructs us on how to feast, emphasizing the importance of faith and action.

Isaiah 58 stresses that true fasting involves kindness and fairness to all, not just abstaining from food. God instructs us to prioritize treating the poor and weak over our religious beliefs.

Faithful action promises a life-changing transformation. God breaks oppression, sets us free, and brings light, healing, and protection. He guides us, gives us strength, and transforms our lives into thriving gardens that can withstand any challenge. 

Let us pray:

Gracious Lord, you’ve shown me that true fasting isn’t just about abstaining from food, but about breaking the chains of injustice in my life and others. 

Heavenly Father, I humbly seek your guidance in demonstrating compassion and sharing my resources with those who are in need.  

Lord  I want my life to be a beacon of light in the darkness. As I serve the oppressed and honor You, I ask for Your promises to be fulfilled in my life. I pray for quick healing, like a well-watered garden or a spring that never dries. Lord, protect and guide me and my people. 

In Jesus’s name,

Amen.

SUBMITTED BY ELDER NORMA HAUGHTON