Do you remember the warnings that go out when a category 5 hurricane is bearing down on a coastal area? The sun is shining and the weather is clear yet the forecasters are warning – no urging people to pack up and get out because the tempest is coming. The smart ones leave; the foolish ones stay saying, “I can ride this one out.” Warnings from God are sometimes pronounced when the sun shines and things look good; yet the tempest is coming. Amos, a simple farm hand from “fly-over country,” goes to the cultural center of Israel with a stark message from God that still resonates today: the storm is coming. Smart people listen.
If you want a big challenge for Sunday, read through Amos 4-5 to get a feel for the devastating conditions that was stirring up God’s anger. Join us for a look at God’s view of societies in breakdown and a surprising high point that follows incredible ruin.
“Therefore thus I will do to you, O Israel; because I will do this to you, prepare to meet your God, O Israel!” For behold, he who forms the mountains and creates the wind, and declares to man what is his thought, who makes the morning darkness, and treads on the heights of the earth— the LORD, the God of hosts, is his name!” (Amos 4:12-13 ESV)
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