We have the fifth and final vision Amos records for us. This one is special because of God’s presence seen by Amos at the altar. There are very few people who have seen God, so Amos is immediately set apart as belonging to a special class of God’s ambassadors. We can also be ambassadors for God in our own circles and beyond. What does that look like for you?
In this intimate encounter, God confirms all of the messages he has already given Amos. This vision is thought to be one Amos received at a time later than the other visions. Take a moment to just let these words settle. “Then I saw a vision of the Lord standing beside the altar.” Seeing God is an honor I can only imagine having. How will it feel?
Up to now, the Israelites have been thinking nothing bad could possibly happen to them. God’s vision here should leave no doubt there will be no escape routes open. All of those distancing themselves from God will perish. The search will be relentless. There is nowhere to hide. God showed Amos and those who heard his words that he was serious.
The thought of God’s judgment and wrath even seems unfathomable to us, doesn’t it? What could it possibly be like to be “completely destroyed?” Looking around them, the people saw abundance and merriment. Thoughts of destruction seemed foreign and impossible. But we know everything is possible with God. If it’s the will of God, it will happen.
The will of God. That’s something we should all want to be nestled in. If you’re like me, you struggle with knowing exactly what that will might be. I agonize for days over decisions, simple life decisions like buying a car. I have gotten super focused on being in alignment with God’s will, looking back over my life and seeing a distinct difference when God was not as big of a priority.
Imagine you were hearing the words of Amos spoken to YOU today (not just the Israelites)? How does that make you feel? Do you feel immune to God’s judgment, or are you starting to question a few things you’re doing in your life? Either way is fine. That’s between you and God.
It does us good to take account of where we are on our faith journey every so often. Doing so daily keeps us connected and on fire! When the Spirit is alive and well inside us, he can keep us focused more on God and doing God’s will. It just makes sense that the more time we spend with God in his word, the more we’ll know his character, how he reacts, and, most importantly, how he loves.
We also know that for us, we do have an escape route. His name is Jesus. The verse that comes to me in this moment is John 3:16. “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” My goodness, that is love!
How do we respond to that kind of love? I certainly want to have more of it. What comes to mind when you think of things you can change to be more connected to God? Here are some ideas: set a new alarm clock time, enjoy more fellowship time with other believers, actually take a Sabbath rest once a week and devote the day to Jesus, start a Bible study. Ask God to show you. He’ll open the doors to spend more time with you.
Remember? God loves you.
Let’s pray. Lord, your love amazes me. I can be a hot mess, completely relying on my own efforts, and yet you love me so deeply. Thank you for forgiving me and giving me a new chance each day. Help me do better at trusting you and seeking your will at all times. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
