We can see clearly in this passage from Isaiah that God is distinguishing between two kinds of “fasts” in answer to the two initial questions.
The first fast, although it may have contained some sacrifice, self-deprecation, or humility of God’s people, all of it was false, worthless and resulted in wickedness. It was a hypocritical fast. They initiated something considered truly holy but then followed their sin nature. They did what they pleased. They exploited, caused strife, debated, and struck their “fist of wickedness”. God’s response was appropriate and forthright. In essence He said, “You cannot act like this and expect me to hear your prayers. Is this the kind of fast I have decided for you; to pretend like you are truly repentant? Would/could you call this a fast? I don’t and it’s not acceptable!” To say that God is not pleased with His people would be a gross understatement.
But God, through His love, mercy and grace for His people, doesn’t just leave them there. He sets out to explain the kind of fast He has chosen. It’s not a fast comprised of self-abasement, soul affliction or sackcloth and ashes. It’s a fast of freedom and charity to others. The words, “loose”, “undo”, “let”, and “break” are freeing words. Essentially, God is telling His people to help prisoners become free from their chains or bondage of sin. The other fast that he is calling them to is that of service to others. They are to show compassion. This is certainly an antithetical response to what was shown before. Words like, “share”, “bring”, “cover”, signify sacrifice of time and treasure. God’s response? There will be light, healing, righteousness, glory of the Lord and ultimately God will hear their prayers. The relationship will be unhindered.
- JSS
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