the whole house with intolerable filth. It is vain for you (Ps 126:2) to empty it when the filth is still flooding in, to repent while you do not cease to sin. For who approves of the fasting of those who fast for strife and contention (Is 58:4), and smite with the fist of wickedness, but indulge themselves and do as they please (Is 58:3). “This is not the fast that I have chosen,” says the Lord (Is 58:6). Close the windows, fasten the doors, block all entry carefully, and when at last you are not