True devotion feeds the hungry and opens our homes to people in need.
“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?”Isaiah 58:7 (KJV)
What does “Share” mean in Isaiah 58:7?
The verse names three acts: sharing bread, sheltering the poor, and clothing the naked. The last phrase speaks of our own kin, the people closest to us.
Going deeper
The chapter continues its description of the fast God wants. Deal thy bread to the hungry, bring the poor that are cast out to thy house, cover the naked, and do not hide thyself from thine own flesh. These are simple, physical acts. There is nothing mystical about them. They are the kind of faith that shows up at the table and at the door. Worship and welcome belong together.
The final phrase is easy to miss. Do not hide yourself from your own kin. Sometimes the hardest people to help are those closest to us, a relative we have not called or a family member we have avoided. Consider whether there is someone in your own circle who needs a meal, a visit, or a kind word. Lent is a natural time to close a distance. Take one step this week, however small. Small, simple acts of sharing are often exactly what is needed, and they are within reach of nearly everyone.
Reflect
Who in your own circle could you share a meal, a visit, or a kind word with this week?
Pray
Father, open my hands and my home to those in need. Show me who I have been avoiding, and give me the courage to draw near. In Jesus' name, amen.
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