This week we are reflecting about the following verses from Amos:

This is what the Lord God Almighty says: Take away from me the noise of your songs; I will not listen to the melody of your harps. But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.

Amos 5:16,23–24

The prophets of the Old Testament were concerned most of all about two major problems – idolatry and injustice. Idolatry is false worship, either worshipping a false god, or worshipping God in a false way. We have a problem with idolatry today! Many people devote themselves to the false “gods” of money, power, or fame. Or people will join in church worship, but will do so in a way that does not truly honor God. This is what Amos was talking about in the first part of the above verse. His basic point is that worship does not honor God if it is coupled with doing injustice to our neighbor. In the present context of this pandemic, this means that we cannot rightfully gather for worship in a way that could make our neighbor sick! Amos’ point is also that worship does not count for much if it is not joined with actively working for a more just world. “Let justice roll down like waters,” says the Lord, “and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” Authentic worship will propel believers into creating a better world around us. This is what moves our church to take a stand against racism and to engage in all sorts of mission outreach today. As we sing God’s praise, we are inspired and empowered to join in God’s purposes.

If you missed Sunday worship, you can join with the recorded service of either the 9:30 or 10:30 worship hours at live.kentmethodist.org

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