This weekend we turn to the prophets for inspiration, hearing words from the prophet, Amos.
The prophets of the Hebrew Scripture are voices of old that can seemingly come crashing into our modern world. Their words were certainly meant for the people of their time - speaking to them of God, calling them out for their shortcomings, encouraging them to hear God’s desires for their lives.
Somehow, these ancient words still speak to us today.
From Amos, we will hear a message spoken to the people of his time, people living in the 8th century northern kingdom of Israel. They were spoken to people who lived comfortable lives. People who worshiped maybe because they were supposed to or maybe because they wanted others to see them, but their worship, Amos says, was hollow.
Amos asks this question - how can our worship be authentic if it’s not accompanied by works of justice? It’s a question, I believe, we should still ask ourselves today. It’s a question we will ask this Sunday, as we gather to worship.
