The Allure of the Easy

Scripture – Amos 2:9-12: “I destroyed the Amorite before them, though he was tall as the cedars and strong as the oaks. I destroyed his fruit above and his roots below. “I brought you up out of Egypt, and I led you forty years in the desert to give you the land of the Amorites. I also raised up prophets from among your sons and Nazirites from among your young men. Is this not true, people of Israel?” declares the LORD. “But you made the Nazirites drink wine and commanded the prophets not to prophesy.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Israel has been part of God’s plan from the beginning. The story of the exodus from Egypt was the foundational image of God’s people at the time of Amos. God formed Israel as His people. He led them to their current homeland. He provided direction for them through the prophets He raised up. But the people would not listen. They even commanded the prophets to be silent.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) There are prophetic voices today that are easy to ignore. They constantly call the church out of her comfortable programs and worship services. They call us to get involved in the messy business of justice and righteousness in the world. I will make myself listen to them. I’m attending a meeting this Friday that should directly address some of this. I will be open to God’s voice in that gathering.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, you know how easy it is to take the easy way. I can keep busy all the time with “church” stuff that’s not really making much difference at all. Keep my ears and eyes open for your word – for your mission. Save me from the easy way.