During the time of Zechariah, Jews had been observing several fast days for years, but had finally come to question whether or not God required those observances. God answered by telling them that instead they needed to humble themselves before God and spiritually change. God gave the same answer to His people during the time of Micah, and during the time of Solomon. During Christ's physical ministry, He re-emphasized this message that the purpose of our religion should be to walk humbly before God in spirit and truth. This message give many OT and NT examples of this principle.

Mark Rorem

(1948-2017)

Mark Rorem (1948-2017) was an elder in the United Church of God, serving primarily in the Oakland congregation. He was a graduate of Ambassador College.  He and his wife, Linda, had three children.  He grew up in Mexico City, and assisted in various aspects of the Spanish language efforts of the Church. He was a practicing attorney since 1979.  He was ordained an elder in 2000.