Tuesday 9 June 2026

Psalm 130

Background
We continue our journey with Amos, now moving into chapter 5. We read how the prophet calls the people to remember who God truly is. The passage begins with a powerful description of the Creator God, the one who made the stars, who turns darkness into morning, and rules over the waters of the earth. This is not a distant or powerless God, but the Lord of all creation, whose justice and authority extend over every part of human life. Yet despite God’s greatness, the people had rejected justice and oppressed the poor. They had become comfortable with corruption, using power for personal gain while ignoring those in need.

Amos speaks strongly against those who “trample on the poor” (v. 11) and take unfair taxes from them. Worship was continuing, but their daily lives contradicted the faith they claimed to hold. The problem was not simply personal wrongdoing; it was a society shaped by injustice and selfishness. Amos reminds the people that God is deeply concerned with how human beings treat one another, especially the vulnerable.

For Methodists, this passage connects closely with the call to social holiness. John Wesley taught that there is no holiness apart from social holiness, meaning that faith cannot be separated from action. Loving God must lead to loving our neighbour in practical and sacrificial ways. Amos challenges us to ask whether our worship is reflected in our choices, priorities and our treatment of others.

The heart of the passage is found in the command: “Seek good and not evil, that you may live.” (v. 14) God’s desire is not destruction, but repentance and restoration. Even in warning, there is hope. The people are invited to turn back towards justice, mercy and righteousness.

Today, we are called to examine our own lives and communities. Are we contributing to fairness, compassion and truth? Or are we remaining silent in the face of wrongdoing? God still calls God's people to seek good, establish justice, and walk humbly with him.

To Ponder:

• How does my faith influence the way I treat people who are vulnerable or overlooked?
• Where do I see injustice in my community, and how might God be calling me to respond?
• What does it mean for me personally to 'seek good and not evil' in daily life?

Prayer
Creator God, you are righteous and just, and you call us to reflect your love in the world. Forgive us when we ignore injustice or place our own comfort before the needs of others. Help us to seek what is good, to stand for truth, and to show compassion in our words and actions. May our faith be lived out through mercy, justice and humble service. 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.