The Italian Memorandum

“Woe to those who are at ease in Zion…Woe to those who lie on beds of ivory and stretch themselves out on their couches, and eat lambs from the flock and calves from the midst of the stall, who sing idle songs to the sound of the harp and like David invent for themselves instruments of music, who drink wine in bowls, and anoint themselves with the finest oils, but are not grieved over the ruin of Joseph!”

(Amos 6:1,4-6)

We often assume that the faithful are the Lord’s people, while the faithless are not God’s people. However, throughout the pages of sacred history, we are reminded that even the Lord’s people are at times found not practicing the faith. The story of Amos 6 is such a sad chronicle in the history of the Lord’s people. Notice the characteristics that led to their downfall:

1. 6:1 They felt secure.

2. 6:1b They belonged to a first class nation.

3. 6:3 Personal disaster was a distant notion.

4. 6:4 They were very relaxed.

5. 6:4b They were eating well.

6. 6:5 They were creative and entertainment based.

7. 6:6 Their beverage of choice was abundant.

8. 6:8b Their economy allowed for the best.

Who would have thought that from this luxurious pinnacle they would have fallen (6:7-8)? Yet, they did fall. Think about your own faith. Are you practicing, or, are you at ease in Zion?

-Robert M. Housby

“Prepare to meet your God, O Israel!”

(Amos 4:12)

Now the bright morning star, Day’s harbinger,
Comes dancing from the east, and leads with her
The flowery May, who from her green lap throws
The yellow cowslip and the pale primrose.
Hail bounteous May that dost inspire
Mirth and youth and warm desire,
Woods and groves are of thy dressing
Hill and dale doth boast thy blessing.
Thus we salute thee with our early song,
And welcome thee, and wish thee long.

(John Milton, On May Morning, 1629-30?)

Milton expressed of the month of May, “And [we] welcome thee and wish thee long.” Have you ever felt that way about something that you wished would never end?

But, isn’t it true that blessings can sometimes turn into complacency about the Lord and His church (see Amos 3:1,2)? “Woe to those who are at ease in Zion” (Amos 6:1). So, Amos 4:12, “Prepare to meet your God,” is ultimately about the inevitable (see Eccl. 12:5,7,14). Yes, we will all appear before the judgment seat of Christ (2 Cor. 5:10).

So, on this May morning, “Seek the Lord and live” (Amos 5:6)!

-Robert M. Housby