Isaiah 58-59

It took me almost 10 minutes to read this passage. In chapter 58 God defines the purpose of fasting (vss 6-7). He also describes the purpose of Sabbath (vss 13-14). God speaks these words to help us understand that there is more to these rituals then their performance. God instituted fasting and Sabbaths so that we would be led to see beyond the surface, and embrace the lessons of self-sacrifice and dependance that he wants for us.
Stuart