Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Justice and Righteousness Over Ritual
Bible Reading: (Amos 5:18-27)
Key Verse: Vs 24 . But let justice run down like water. And righteousness like a mighty stream
DEVOTION
In Amos 5:18-27, God addresses the people of Israel who long for the "Day of the Lord," mistakenly believing it will bring them blessing and vindication. Instead, God rebukes their superficial worship and ritualistic sacrifices, declaring that He despises their offerings because their hearts are far from Him. The Israelites were observing religious practices while neglecting justice and righteousness, which are the true expressions of God's will.
This passage reminds us that God values the condition of our hearts and the way we live over mere outward displays of religion. Worship becomes meaningless when it is disconnected from a life that reflects God's character. Justice—treating others fairly and standing against oppression—and righteousness—living in right relationship with God and others—are what God desires.
Amos 5:24 encapsulates this message: "But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!" This vivid imagery calls for an ongoing and unceasing commitment to justice and righteousness, not as occasional acts but as a way of life.
Today, we are challenged to examine our own lives. Are we going through the motions of religious activity without pursuing justice and righteousness in our relationships, communities, and world? True worship flows from a heart aligned with God’s priorities—loving others, seeking fairness, and walking humbly with Him. May our lives reflect the justice and righteousness that God desires, demonstrating His love to a world in need of transformation.
PRAYER
Father, help us to offer worship that is pleasing to You. You want more than singing and dancing and a gift in the offering. You desire justice! So, stir our hearts, to offer You true worship that provides service to the poor, the widow, the slave, the prisoner, the hungry, the thirsty, the naked and the homeless (Matthew 25:31-46). Let our acts of compassion roll like a river. Let us offer worship that is woven into obedience because anything less than obedience is self-made, self-centered, and self-created religion. You reject this man-centered worship. If we engage in this false religion, the end result is bondage. So, we pray our lives will be marked by true worship, and we pray this real worship will free the oppressed
Thought of the day
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness ,for they shall be filled.
Nissy Cherian
The Mar Thoma Church - Staten Island