News
about the assassination of Charlie Kirk recently have fostered numerous
responses of anger, confusion, and surprisingly even celebration by those who
would reveal the evil in their own hearts. Whether or not one agrees with
someone’s opinions and expressions, murder should never be a response and
certainly should never be celebrated. The Prophet Amos spoke to the people of
Israel in vivid visions and warnings, perhaps nowhere less than Amos 8. The
Prophet begins the chapter by referencing visions of summer fruit (v. 2).[1] Through the prophet, God
charges Israel with social injustice, commercial dishonesty, and indifference
to holy days. Here, a sharp warning is given to God’s people regarding
injustice, for God is just so anything that does not exhibit his own heart is
evil.
[1]
The Hebrew words for “summer fruit” and “end” are similar and skillfully
brought together (v. 2) for effect (i.e., the end has come for Israel).
