Monday 8 June 2026

Psalm 112

Background
We begin our week’s journey with Amos, starting in chapter 3. Here, the prophet reminds Israel that being chosen by God is not a privilege without responsibility. God had brought the people out of Egypt and entered into covenant with them, but they had grown complacent, unjust and spiritually distant. Amos makes it clear that closeness to God means accountability. “You only have I known of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.” (v. 2) These words are uncomfortable, yet they reveal that God’s concern for God's people is rooted in love and holiness.

Amos uses a series of questions about cause and effect: lions roar because they have prey, traps spring because something has triggered them, and disaster does not come without warning. In the same way, the prophet’s message is not random. God is speaking because something has gone wrong in the life of the nation. The people had ignored injustice, neglected the poor, and assumed that religious identity alone would keep them secure.

Perhaps for us today, this passage is a reminder that faith must shape the way we live. John Wesley spoke often about 'holiness of heart and life', meaning that worship and discipleship cannot be separated from justice, mercy and compassion. Amos challenges us to examine whether our faith is active in the world around us. Are we listening when God speaks through Scripture, conscience, or the cries of those who suffer?

The final verse declares, “The Lord God has spoken; who can but prophesy?” (v. 8) Once Amos had heard God’s voice, he could not remain silent. We too are called not only to hear God’s word, but to respond faithfully. Discipleship involves courage: courage to confront injustice, to repent where needed, and to live in ways that reflect God’s righteousness and love.

To Ponder:

• What responsibilities come with being part of God’s people today?
• Where might God be calling me to notice or respond to injustice around me?
• How can I better align my everyday actions with the faith I profess?

Prayer
Faithful God, open our ears to hear your voice and soften our hearts to respond with obedience and compassion. Forgive us when we grow comfortable and fail to seek justice or love our neighbours well. Give us courage to live faithfully, speaking truth with humility and reflecting your mercy in all we do. Amen.

Bible notes author: The Revd Mark Carrick
Mark is the Superintendent Minister of the Derbyshire North-East Circuit in Chesterfield, and has pastoral charge of seven churches. His passion is for ministry within the community and growing disciples within the Church.