Amos 8:4-7 (NRSV)
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Verse 4Hear this, you that trample on the needy, and bring to ruin the poor of the land, Verse 5saying, "When will the new moon be over so that we may sell grain; and the sabbath, so that we may offer wheat for sale? We will make the ephah small and the shekel great, and practice deceit with false balances, Verse 6buying the poor for silver and the needy for a pair of sandals, and selling the sweepings of the wheat." Verse 7The Lord has sworn by the pride of Jacob: Surely I will never forget any of their deeds.
Devotion
Amos, a humble shepherd in the Judean countryside, was tasked by God to deliver a message of judgement to the people of the northern kingdom of Israel. Appearing devout, their hearts were worshipping idols, oppressing the poor, and following corrupt business practices. In Amos 8:4-7, the wealthy managers are depicted as awaiting the end of religious observances so they can resume dishonest business practices for financial gain.
Earlier in chapter 8, God, seeing through their deception, likens them to overripe fruit—outwardly abundant but inwardly spoiled and ready for consequences. Just as neglected fruit turns rotten, so do people who forsake justice and mercy for personal gain. Amos’ challenge is also for us to examine our own lives: Are we hiding behind ritual while ignoring compassion? Can we be harvested for goodness, nurturing those in need and honoring sacred times as God intends, or have we grown indifferent, risking spiritual decay?
Prayer
Righteous God, you see beyond our outward appearances and know our heart’s truth. Keep us from false worship, and shape us into people who live with justice, mercy, and compassion, so that our lives bear fruit that honors you. Amen.
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