Proper 27: Old Testament, Amos 5:18-24                                      

Amos 5:18-24

“The day of the LORD.” In Scripture it doesn’t take long to see that the particular day or the larger application of this day (meaning multiple days), isn’t something to be desired. At least not by the people who oppose God. For the believer in Jesus who has received the redeeming work of the Messiah of Israel for himself or herself, the Day of the Lord will be one of unbridled joy and anticipation of all God’s promises fulfilled. But for those who reject the free offer of grace and mercy, nothing but darkness. And Amos says as much to those in the Northern Kingdom.

“Woe to you who desire the day of the LORD,” Amos says to those who falsely believe they have nothing to fear. Most of the people in the world are like them. God is perhaps there when I need Him. Or, God is a kindly old man who will accept me no matter what. Not so. Those who haven’t bothered to get to know the God who is there, shouldn’t desire any meeting with Him unless repentance comes with them. And God desires that for all. But the day of the Lord is just that. His day. And He will have His way whether you know Him or not. Repent and believe the good news!