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As I read this passage, I feel a strong conviction about the way I address poverty in my community. Having been raised by an alcoholic mother in the impoverished side of town, I have always been on the receiving end of church donations and compassion. I never really thought about my contribution to that part of the community.

Yet, in this verses we see God rejecting the fasting of the Israelites because of the lack of ministry in their actions. They were selfish in their intent and fasted for themselves. God doesn't accept it. Rather He would see them bring in the homeless, feed and clothe the impoverished.

Yet, what strikes me is that He makes no distinction between the poor or the rich. Both were called to minister regardless of how tough the fight is. He promised to be our water in a dry and thirsty land, if we choose to practice authentic worship in the midst of our poverty.