July 21, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for July 21st: Amos 8:1-12; Psalm 52; Colossians 1:15-28; Luke 10:38-42: Theme: We are a sinful people Amos: The prophet Amos seems to have a knack for the dramatic. He loves to make examples that people can relate to . This time is a basket of summer fruit that is the example. Just as fruit spoils easily, so do the consequences of our actions. Amos tries to find as many ways as he can to help the people Israel understand that when they do not take care of the less fortunate, then they are like spoiled fruit. God will hold all of us accountable. Our luck will eventually run out. Amos is from the country, and he goes to the city to warn people that they are so concerned about themselves, that they do not attention to others. In a sense, he predicts the exile from their homeland as punishment and a lesson for not caring about others. He says that people are laughing now, but they will soon cry. Amos just wants people to become aware of their own insensitivity, and to do somethings different. Luke: Jesus has been busy teaching the crowds as he is making his way to Jerusalem. As he is traveling he is grateful that 20 miles out of town, he can drop in on his old friends Mary and Martha (and Lazurus). His friends go out of their way to make Jesus feel welcome, when they realize that he is coming to visit. But the two sisters have two different views of good hospitality. Martha want the house to be clean and everything perfect, and Mary wants to spend time with her guest. Jesus wants us to know that both styles of hospitality are important. It is important for us as Christian to work hard, but to also take some time and to study to word and to interact with others. Jesus needs both forms, sometimes even from the same person. Questions: What sins do our society need to turn away from? What sins do our congregation need to be aware of? How much time in your schedule do you allow for study? What preparations do you do when guest are coming to your house?