Isaiah 1:11-18

“Do you think I need any more of your sacrifices?” asks the LORD. “I have more than enough of your burnt offerings. I have more than enough of rams and the fat of your fattest animals. I do not find any pleasure in the blood of your bulls, lambs and goats. Who asked you to bring all these animals when you come to worship me? Who asked you and your animals to walk all over my courtyards? Stop bringing offerings that do not mean anything to me! I hate your incense. I can’t stand your worthless gatherings. I can’t stand the way you celebrate your New Moon feasts, Sabbath days and special services. Your New Moon feasts and your other appointed feasts I hate with my whole being. They have become a heavy load to me. I am tired of carrying it. You might spread out your hands toward me when you pray. But I do not look at you. You might even offer many prayers. But I am not listening to them. Your hands are covered with the blood of the people you have murdered. So wash and make yourselves clean. Get your evil actions out of my sight! Stop doing what is wrong! Learn to do what is right! Treat people fairly. Help those who are treated badly. Stand up in court for children whose fathers have died. And do the same thing for widows. “Come. Let us settle this matter,” says the LORD. “Even though your sins are bright red, they will be as white as snow. Even though they are deep red, they will be white like wool.