Glory leading to catastrophe

Glory leading to catastrophe

 

Amos 6:1-14

 

Prophet Amos pronounces judgment on the leaders of Israel who indulged in abundance and prosperity, indulged in luxury and pleasure, and exploited the powerless. They boasted of their wealth and power, ignoring the surrounding countries. They were not interested in the suffering of the poor. God says that they will be the first to be taken captive and harassed by foreign countries. They will lose their properties and lives and be captured by foreign armies.

 

God first judges the leaders who led the way in injustice and pleasure (7-11). Their most glorious place will become their most shameful place. We must be alert to the fact that accumulated injustice and sin in a society can cause national disaster. Even now, God will never overlook those who pursue their own interests at the expense of others.

 

Wealth and power for self-interest will hasten the ‘day of violence’ just for themselves (3-6). The Israeli leadership only satisfied their own stomachs and felt no interest or responsibility for those who were suffering. Do I care as much about the lives of my neighbors and brothers as I do about the quality of my own life? Remember, having more is a responsibility, not a privilege.

 

Lord, help us to abandon the foolishness of vainly seeking glory. Help us to listen to Your voice and the cries of the weak.

주여, 헛되이 영광을 구하는 어리석음을 버릴 수 있게 도와주소서. 우리가 주님의 음성과 약한 이들의 부르짖음을 들을 수 있도록 도와주소서.

 

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