ZECHARIAH 7
While in Babylon, the Jews started a new tradition: fasting on the ninth day of the fifth month to commemorate the destruction of Jerusalem. But a remnant was now rebuilding the city and the temple, and the prophets said that an even greater city and temple were yet to come. Should this fast be continued?
There is nothing wrong with traditions that do not involve practices contrary to the Word of God. But it is good to examine these traditions from time to time just to make sure they are meaningful.
Are we doing this unto the Lord? Or is it just a ceremony that we endure regularly? If the Lord is left out, the tradition lacks both life and heart. (See Rom. 14:1–9.)
Does doing this help us serve others? The fast God wants is not an annual ceremony but a daily way of life. It means showing compassion and mercy and helping the poor and needy. God wants mercy, not sacrifice (Hos. 6:6;
Does doing this make us obedient to His Word? The previous generation carried out their traditions but hardened their hearts to the Word of God. Are we doing the same thing?