Amos 5:22-24
“But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an everflowing stream.” vs. 24
These words, directed by the prophet Amos to the leaders of Israel, have a contemporary ring to them and remind us of the inspired oratory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Like Amos, King saw clearly the inequities of society and made an eloquent plea for an end to injustice in segregated America. Prophets like Amos and Dr. King generally are not well received by the dominating powers…often they are seen as threats and occasionally they’re killed. But opposition doesn’t stop a true prophet, and we can be grateful for their courage and their presence. They speak up when the majority of us are silent…and become advocates for the poor and the afflicted. Through their efforts, laws are changed and barriers are taken down. Sometimes we can even see incremental movements toward full inclusion and equal rights. Will there ever be a time when prophets are not needed? Probably not! The desire for power and wealth has continued unabated in our world…and leaders will always be susceptible to corruption and greed. All of us are tempted by the lure of riches and long for control–the power of sin continues unabated. As a result, there will always be a need for those who work for justice and righteousness. May their prophetic voices never be silenced…especially when they make us uncomfortable!
Thought for the Day: Where are prophetic voices needed now?
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