Pause

When it comes to living a life that is rich, we know that it takes more than money. It has to include work that is meaningful and relationships that nourish.

That is the kind of life that God is interested in offering us. But we have choices to make; the appeal of true poverty, a life spent in self-interest and solitude, is surprisingly strong.

Choose now the richness of life God offers.

Listen

Alas for those who are at ease in Zion, and for those who feel secure on Mount Samaria...Alas for those who lie on beds of ivory, and lounge on their couches, and eat lambs from the flock, and calves from the stall; who sing idle songs to the sound of the harp, and like David improvise on instruments of music; who drink wine from bowls, and anoint themselves with the finest oils, but are not grieved over the ruin of Joseph! Therefore they shall now be the first to go into exile, and the revelry of the loungers shall pass away.

Amos 6:1a, 4-7

Think

I think today’s passage is a wake-up call. Amos is prophesying about people who have gotten too comfortable with what they have. They are lounging on their couches, eating good food, listening to good music (it sounds like a fun time), but his warning comes with the fact that these same people pay no attention to the ruin of others. They are so immersed in their own finery that they pay no attention to others.

It’s easy to let that happen. We can live life in our own little bubbles. We think the things we have or want are the only things that matter. We can get so caught up in what’s going on in our own world that we become oblivious to the world around us. When is the last time you really paid attention to people at school or work, not just your friends but all the people you encounter or pass by each day?

May God help us be more aware of the world around us.

Susan Reed

Pray

Holy God, as I go about my day, help me be truly aware of the people around me. Help me to see places where I can offer support, help someone in need, and learn from other people. Amen.

Go

May God fill your soul with waters of generosity,
Taking you to the gate of thirsty neighbors,
That you might come to know them and,
Knowing them,
Share from the richness of
God's love.