True Fasting: A Call to Justice, Compassion, and Renewal by Pastor Victor Mushimbami

 

Introduction

The National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation in Zambia, observed on October 18th, was declared by former President Edgar Lungu in 2015. This day was established to unite the nation in prayer, especially during challenging times, and to seek divine intervention for the country’s peace and prosperity. As we gather today, let us reflect on the true meaning of fasting and how it can transform our lives and our nation.

To understand the true essence of fasting, we turn to the words of the prophet Isaiah. In Isaiah 58:6-8, God speaks through Isaiah to convey a powerful message about the kind of fasting that pleases Him.

Isaiah was a prophet during a tumultuous time in Israel’s history, around the 8th century BCE. The people of Israel were outwardly religious, observing fasts and rituals, but their hearts were far from God. They were neglecting justice, mercy, and compassion. Isaiah 58 addresses this hypocrisy and calls the people to a deeper, more genuine form of worship.

Isaiah 58:6-8 (NIV): “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.”

With this scripture in mind, our theme for today is “True Fasting: A Call to Justice, Compassion, and Renewal.”

Fasting as a Means of Social Justice

Isaiah 58:6 emphasizes that true fasting isn’t just about going without food, it’s about taking real, compassionate action. God is asking His people to show mercy and promote justice in their communities. This type of fasting is not just a personal spiritual exercise but also a way to live out love and fairness toward others.

The verse says:

”Is not this the fast that I have chosen? To loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?”

This means God is calling His people to make sure their fast is accompanied by actions that make a difference in the lives of those who are suffering. Let’s break it down more clearly:

"To loose the bands of wickedness” means breaking free people who are caught in unfair situations, whether it’s being trapped by injustice, unfair obligations, or oppressive practices. God is telling us that if we want to fast in a way that pleases Him, we need to be working to free people from these kinds of harmful situations, like helping those caught in unfair debt or exploitation.

"To undo the heavy burdens” refers to lifting the weight of debt or stress off someone else’s shoulders. In the original context, this might refer to heavy loans, mortgages, or legal documents that bind people in poverty. The prophet wants to see people being released from the crushing weight of debts they can’t repay, especially when those debts were taken out of desperation or need. It’s about showing mercy, even to those who owe you something.

"To let the oppressed go free” means setting free anyone who is being mistreated, whether it’s through slavery, unfair loans, or harsh treatment. This could also include releasing prisoners who have been unfairly imprisoned. God desires justice and freedom for those who are trapped in difficult or unjust situations.

"That ye break every yoke” means removing all forms of oppression. A yoke is a symbol of control or domination, often used to refer to heavy burdens that someone is forced to bear. God is asking His people to ensure that anyone under their care, such as servants or employees, are not being treated harshly or unfairly. It’s about freeing people from any type of bondage, whether physical, emotional, or financial.

God’s message in Isaiah 58:6 is that fasting isn’t just about what you give up, but about what you give. It’s about taking real action to help others, lifting them out of difficult and unjust situations, and making sure they are treated with dignity and fairness.

Fasting as an Act of Compassion

Isaiah 58:7 highlights the importance of sharing with those in need. The verse explains that true fasting, the kind that pleases God, is about more than just denying oneself food. It’s about actively caring for others, especially the less fortunate, by providing for their basic needs like food, shelter, and clothing. This is how we show genuine compassion and love for our neighbors.

"Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? When thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?”

In this verse, God clarifies what He truly desires from fasting. After emphasizing the need to avoid cruelty and harm, He now outlines the positive actions required: the exercise of mercy, generosity, and care for others as a true sign of repentance. This echoes the teachings in Daniel 4:27 and Luke 19:8, where righteousness toward others is twofold, first, refraining from harm, and second, actively doing good to everyone. These two aspects of righteousness are inseparable, especially when fasting as an act of humility and repentance.

"To deal” means to divide or share, and "bread” represents anything essential for life, including food and other necessities.

"That thou bring the poor” refers to those who are not only in need but also helpless, unable to provide for themselves. ”Cast out” refers to individuals who have been forced out of their homes due to injustice or persecution and have nowhere to stay.

"To thy house” means offering hospitality and providing shelter for those in need.

"When thou seest the naked” refers to people without proper clothing to protect them from the elements. ”That thou cover him” encourages us to provide clothing and other essentials (as emphasized in James 2:15-16).

"Hide not thyself” is a call not to ignore or avoid those in need. Instead of making excuses, we should respond quickly and compassionately, like the Good Samaritan, who didn’t pass by an injured man, but helped him (Luke 10:31-35).

"From thine own flesh” can be understood as a reminder to treat all people as our family. While some might limit this to relatives, God calls us to extend our compassion to everyone, as Jesus taught us to see all people as our neighbors. If we truly love others as ourselves, we would feed, clothe, and shelter them just as we would want to be cared for if we were in their situation.

Fasting Leading to Spiritual Renewal and Healing

Isaiah 58:8 reveals the blessings that come from fasting in the way God desires. When we align our actions with His will, seeking justice, helping others, and showing mercy, God promises to respond with renewal, healing, and His protective presence.

"Then shall thy light break forth as the morning” means that joy, happiness, and relief will come into your life as suddenly and as surely as the light of dawn breaking through darkness. Just like the rising sun, God’s blessing will appear quickly when you truly humble yourself before Him.

"Thine health shall spring forth speedily” refers to a quick recovery of prosperity, strength, and well-being. Just as a person who was once ill regains their strength, God promises to restore and renew those who fast and live rightly.

"Thy righteousness shall go before thee” speaks of how your good deeds, integrity, and right living will lead the way for you. This means that living righteously will open the doors to happiness, safety, and God’s guidance. Your righteousness will be evident to others, and blessings will come as a result of your good actions.

"The glory of the Lord shall be thy rearward” means that God’s presence, power, and protection will be behind you, watching over you like a rear guard. Just as God’s presence protected the Israelites as they escaped from Egypt, He promises to be with you, transforming your current struggles into a new and glorious future.

Conclusion

As we observe this National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation, let us remember that true fasting goes beyond abstaining from food. It involves acts of justice, compassion, and seeking spiritual renewal. By fasting in this manner, we can draw closer to God, experience His healing, and contribute to the unity and development of our nation.

May this day be a powerful reminder of our dependence on God and our responsibility to seek His face in all we do. Let us come together in unity, prayer, and fasting, trusting that God will hear our prayers and heal our land.

Prayer Requests for the National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation

1. Prayer for the Economy of Zambia

Request: Pray for economic stability, growth, and prosperity in Zambia. Ask God to bless industries, agriculture, and businesses, and to provide employment opportunities and improve living standards for all citizens.

2. Prayer for Leadership

Request: Pray for the leaders of Zambia, from the President to local government officials. Ask God to grant them wisdom, integrity, and a heart for service, so they may lead with justice and righteousness, seeking the welfare of all citizens.

3. Prayer for Relief from Drought and Provision of Good Rain

Request: Pray for relief from drought and for the provision of good rain. Ask God to bless the land with the rain needed for crops to grow and for water sources to be replenished, and to protect the nation from the adverse effects of climate change.

4. Prayer for Unity Among Men of God

Request: Pray for unity among the men of God in Zambia. Ask God to help them work together in harmony, setting aside differences to advance His kingdom, and to let their unity be a testimony of His love and a source of strength for the church.

5. Prayer for the Growth of Garneton East Chapel

Request: Pray for spiritual growth, numerical increase, and a deepening of faith among the members of Garneton East Chapel. Ask God to bless the leadership and congregation with vision and passion to reach out to the community.

Amen 🙏