True Religion - October 23 Readings: Isaiah 57–58, 1 Thessalonians 2–3, Psalm 119:33–40, Proverbs 26:1

Links to October 23 Readings: Isaiah 57–58, 1 Thessalonians 2–3, Psalm 119:33–40, Proverbs 26:1

I know, I know, religion is a dirty word today. I understand that we tend to use it negatively (I've done it) emphasizing that our faith is a walk with God, not just a religion of works and rituals and rules. There are many who have some form of religion but do not know Jesus and have never received his offer of salvation by grace.

But religion is not really a dirty word. Religion refers to those things we do to practice our faith. Going to church, giving offerings, serving one another, teaching classes, learning doctrine - these are all religious acts.

The prophet Isaiah, proclaiming the word of the Lord, often condemned empty and meaningless religious rituals. He does that in Isaiah 58. But he also commends true religion - that in which faith is practiced with a true heart of passion, obedience and faith.

Look at the accusation God lodges against them in verses 3-4.

Look, you do as you please on the day of your fast, and oppress all your workers.You fast with contention and strife to strike viciously with your fist. You cannot fast as you do today, hoping to make your voice heard on high.

While they were fasting, a time that was supposed to be devoted to seeking God, they "did as they pleased." They continued to oppress those who worked for them, engaged in contention and strife, were violent and engaged in all kinds of sin. 

Religion is empty, useless and even offensive to God when we simply go through the motions of our faith without a true heart for God. It was a real problem in the days of Isaiah and I am afraid that it remains a problem in our day. We go to church, sing the songs, give our offerings, work in the church, but our heart is full of self, empty of passion and focused on other things. 

God is not an emotionally needy puppy to craves our affection and attention whenever we give it. He is the great God of heaven, Creator and sustainer of the universe, who demands to be the primary passion of our hearts. He will accept nothing less. 

Verses 6 and 7 describes, in Old Testament terms, the basis of true religion. 

Isn’t the fast I choose: To break the chains of wickedness, to untie the ropes of the yoke, to set the oppressed free, and to tear off every yoke?Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the poor and homeless into your house, to clothe the naked when you see him, and not to ignore your own flesh and blood?

What God wanted from a fast was a heart that submitted to him and became reinvigorated with the desire to obey him and do what he purposed. We are to turn from sin, breaking the chains of wickedness. We are to serve others in God's name and help those in need. 

True religion is based on a passion for Christ, repentance from sin, and a desire to serve him fully. If our church-going and religious deeds don't lead us to spiritual renewal and ministry for him, then it is empty, meaningless, pharisaical religion. 

Father, may my faith be real, rooted in a real passion for you, producing repentance and faith, and motivating me to sacrificial service in the name of Christ.