Amos 5:24
But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!
The message here is very similar to yesterday's verse, but at a different time, from a different source. The imagery makes it so powerful. It is almost as though Amos is suggesting that justice and righteousness could become powerful and unstoppable if they were allowed to gather momentum. The force of justice could be like the power of gravity pulling the water along. Unfortunately, I think we tend to look at justice on a case by case basis, and not as an over-riding principle to live by. The kind of justice Amos is describing would need systemic changes in our cultures to come about. But change has to start somewhere, and as an individual I must start with myself and my actions.
Lord God, help me to see opportunities to further justice and fairness in my encounters with others. Help me to know what to do to make a difference. Martin Luther King used this verse, and what a difference he made! Amen
Becky, transforming
Amos 5:24 But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!
Amos is telling me that God’s idea of justice is the proper treatment of all people rich, poor or needy. Verse 15 says, “Hate evil and love good, and establish justice in the gate:” May I always seek justice in the gate.
Dearest Lord, give me the grace to always follow your teaching in regard to justice. I know there are times I fail at this challenge. Give us as followers of Christ the ability to learn how to seek justice for Jesus. In His name I pray. Amen.
Thursday, February 9th, 2023
AMOS 5:24
But let Justice roll on like a river, righteousness, like a never failing stream
God is telling Israel that if you’re not going to spend your lives working to help those who are in need and standing up for those who are being abused, then don’t expect me to be impressed with your beautiful worship when you come together in church. I did not know that this was part of Martin Luther King’s address, or this verse was even in the Bible. I have only heard these words for the very first time today. “Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream.” I am learning what these words mean, becau…
Amos 5:24
This is one of those verses that almost to demands you read what has proceeded it. Well, as usual, God’s children have grown complacent in all aspects of their lives and are even worshiping false idols and bringing burnt offerings. They are not living as God intended. Amos gives many warnings, but this beautiful verse paints a picture of the importance of justice – a flood – in endless River. We need to pay attention to this. We see, today, many aspects of justice used unevenly. Amos’ warning is for us today
Prayer: Gracious God, I hope in some small way I can help create a flood of justice. Amen
Amos 5:24 At seminary, I learned this became a particularly revered verse in America’s emerging black churches after the Civil War based on their ongoing struggle for equality. Becky is spot on in noting the difference between justice as individual acts and an overarching societal principle. We need, and Scripture prescribes, both.
Prayer - Lord God, Ruler of all, let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream! Amen
TAA