Restart: Compassion and JusticeSample

COMPLACENCY

For many years, the statement “let them eat cake” has been attributed to Marie Antoinette, even though there is no proof that she ever uttered the statement. But the words are synonymous with a complacent attitude toward the poor. This passage in Amos shows a similar attitude in regard to the plight of the poor. Besides uttering an indictment against the people of Israel for their sins, the prophet Amos had harsh words for the pampered, wealthy women of Samaria (the northern kingdom of Israel). By calling them “cows,” Amos compared them to the well-known breed of cattle in the land.

The old saying, “If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem” is a fitting one for this passage. The women turned a blind eye to the needs of the poor, and instead focused on their own needs. They didn’t know what it was like to be in need, so God had bad news for them. They would experience firsthand what being in need was like.

What was God’s “case” against Israel in Amos 3? How did the women’s attitude (Amos 4) add to the case? When have you seen this type of attitude in our day?

When are you most tempted toward complacency? How aware are you of the needs of those around you? What will you do to find out what those needs are or help meet them? Pray: Lord God, you have given us so much. You are not pleased with complacency. Give me the courage to speak with boldness your word of truth. Give me eyes to see the needs around me.