“Is this a fast for me?”

Thus saith the Lord our God;

“A day for man to vex his soul,

And feel affliction’s rod?

“No; is not this alone

The sacred fast I choose:

Oppression’s yoke to burst in twain,

The bands of guilt unloose?

“To nakedness and want

Your food and raiment deal,

To dwell your kindred race among,

And all their sufferings heal?

“Then, like the morning ray,

Shall spring your health and light;

Before you, righteousness shall shine,

Around, my glory bright!”