But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream! Amos 5:24 (Amos)
Amos, a simple breeder of livestock, was called from Judah to take a message to Israel. Israel’s capitol was the beautiful city of Samaria, who’s palatial residences were built on the backs of the poor. These Jewish people held themselves in great esteem as they publicly marched themselves to the temples, made their sacrifices and paid their tithes, all while cheating and oppressing their fellow man.
At the height of Israel’s military and economic prosperity under king Jeroboam, the marginalized became more so. The rich considered the less fortunate, dispensable commodities and harshly exploited them through a corrupt justice system. There was an increased interest in worship, but these people did not make the connection between their relationship with God, their behavior toward humankind and Godliness in everyday life. These attitudes spelled doom, for the individual and the nation. Within 30 years, those who were so proud became the lowest of exiled slaves.
Even though Amos speaks God’s words of warning, he ends his short career with words of hope. Our love for God is reflected in our love for fellow man and there is life beyond judgement for those who humble themselves.
Love,
Gretchen