Chapter 1:11-15:
“The multitude of your sacrifices—what are they to me?” says
the Lord.
“I have more than enough of burnt offerings, of rams and the
fat of fattened animals;
I have no pleasure in the blood of bulls and lambs and
goats.
When you come to appear before me, who has asked this of
you, this trampling of my courts?
Stop bringing meaningless offerings! Your incense is
detestable to me.
New Moons, Sabbaths and convocations—I cannot bear your
worthless assemblies.
Your New Moon feasts and your appointed festivals I hate
with all my being.
They have become a burden to me; I am weary of bearing them.
When you spread out your hands in prayer, I hide my eyes
from you;
even when you offer many prayers, I am not listening.
Your hands are full of blood!
Father God, the people were so guilty before you. You could
not enjoy their attempts at worship. By ourselves, we are just as dirty and
ugly before you. Thank you for your son who made us clean, so that we have the
right to come before you with praise.
Verses 16-18:
Wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of
my sight;
stop doing wrong. Learn to do right;
seek justice.
Defend the oppressed. Take up the
cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.
“Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord.
“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white
as snow;
though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.
Father, you are willing to talk with us. You give us
directions to help those in need. Your son has cleansed us so that we are
allowed these privileges before you.
Verses 19-20:
If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good
things of the land;
but if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the
sword.”
For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.
Lord, thank you for giving us the choice to come to you. Thank you for the good you want to give us.
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