Amos, as inspired by God, wrote a horror movie script…who
knew??? The scenario described reveals a
man running away from a lion. He is
catching his breath feeling relieved that he has escaped the lion, when out
pops a bear! Running from the bear, he reaches
his home and shuts the door supposing he is at last in a secure place. He leans against the wall in exhaustion. Uh-oh!
A snake swings down from the rafters and bites him!
The judgment of the Lord is certain. It may not come on the time table we expect,
but it will come.
Why? The people
described in Amos are religious without sincerity. They make a show of their rituals, but have
no genuine care for the poor and needy.
They may pretend to worship, but give no thought to what is right and
just. They are consumed by pride in
themselves and complacency regarding anyone else. They use every method available to advance
their own cause, not caring who is harmed in the process.
Amos watched what went on around him with grief, as do many
genuine believers today. We look around
and see many of the same characteristics in our society. People in our culture seem focused on being
entertained and having material possessions.
Except for an occasional spasm of conscience, so little thought is given
to the poor and suffering in the world.
Repentance would be preferable, but, I am afraid that the
lion is coming, followed by the bear and the snake.