Amos, Day 3 Readings

God's Judgment Will Be Harsh and No One Will Escape 

Today's first reading offers a stern warning to Israel about the consequences they will soon face.  The kingdom will be captured, and entire armies will be destroyed.  In fact, it seems like the population will almost completely disappear by death or exile.  No one will be untouched by God's punishment.  And those who hope for "the day of the Lord" don't quite know what they wish for -- it will bring judgment for the faithless, rather than salvation.

Read Amos 5:1-27  (NIV)   (NRSV)   (CEB)

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Today's second reading gives a specific prophecy against the rich and powerful who believe that their wealth and influence will protect them.  (After all, such people usually find ways to survive -- and even keep doing what they were doing -- unlike regular people.  This doesn't just happen in modern times; it has always happened.)  While they pretend disinterest in what is happening, God warns that they will suffer.  Indeed, it sounds like most of the wealthy and powerful will be killed by the invading army, which God deems a just punishment for their behavior and their worship of false gods.

Read Amos 6:1-14  (NIV)   (NRSV)   (CEB)

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Reading the Bible in Its Entirety

If you are planning to read the Bible in its entirety, you should read Amos 5-6 today.