1. Can we stop fasting now? (1-7)

Temple construction resumed in the 2nd year of Darius and completed in the 6th year (Ez 6:15). Since the exile was over, the people had one question: 'Can we stop fasting and repenting now, as we’ve been doing for 70 years?' The LORD says, 'Was it really for me that you fasted?' He is looking for more than ritual sacrifices; God is looking at our hearts. His message has not changed: he wants true fasting.

2. True fasting (8-14)

Isaiah 58:1-5 exposed their hypocritical fasting. God’s word is the same (Mic 6:8; Isa 58:6): 'Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.' When they would not listen to God, he would not listen to their prayers. They, and we, should learn from history.


Application: Father, thank you for showing justice, mercy and compassion in Jesus’ life. Help me follow his example today. 
One Word: Show mercy and compassion