Isaiah 1:10-20

10Listen to the Lord’s word, you leaders of Sodom! Pay attention to our God’s rebuke, people of Gomorrah!

11“Of what importance to me are your many sacrifices?” says the Lord. “I am stuffed with burnt sacrifices of rams and the fat from steers. The blood of bulls, lambs, and goats I do not want.

12When you enter my presence, do you actually think I want this – animals trampling on my courtyards?

13Do not bring any more meaningless offerings; I consider your incense detestable! You observe new moon festivals, Sabbaths, and convocations, but I cannot tolerate sin-stained celebrations!

14I hate your new moon festivals and assemblies; they are a burden that I am tired of carrying.

15When you spread out your hands in prayer, I look the other way; when you offer your many prayers, I do not listen, because your hands are covered with blood.

16Wash! Cleanse yourselves! Remove your sinful deeds from my sight. Stop sinning!

17Learn to do what is right! Promote justice! Give the oppressed reason to celebrate! Take up the cause of the orphan! Defend the rights of the widow!

18Come, let’s consider your options,” says the Lord. “Though your sins have stained you like the color red, you can become white like snow; though they are as easy to see as the color scarlet, you can become white like wool.

19If you have a willing attitude and obey, then you will again eat the good crops of the land.

20But if you refuse and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.” Know for certain that the Lord has spoken.