Devotion for July 6, 2021

Amos 7:14-15

Then Amos answered Amaziah, “I am no prophet, nor a prophet’s son; but I am a herdsman, and a dresser of sycamore trees, and the LORD took me from following the flock, and the LORD said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to my people Israel.’

 Amos said some things that were not popular with the king, or his priest Amaziah, who tells Amos to go to Judah to earn a living as a seer there. These verses are Amos’ reply. Ministers often say things that do not sit well with some people. Ministers are often held up on some pedestal that suggest they are different than regular people. Amos’ response is an encouraging one to both of those thoughts. First, he acknowledges that he has a calling, and one that is very specific. Second, he reminds Amaziah that he is nothing special, really, he’s just a humble herdsman. In making both statements, Amos reminds us as clergy, that we do have a divine and specific call, and that we are nothing special. Moreover, we are reminded that each member of our congregation fits this description too. Called by God, to be the presence of God in the world, as banker, teacher, nurse, attorney, farmer, shop owner, student, or anything else.

May we all, not just live into our calling, but do so knowing that our very lives are callings to relationships where love, care, and depend on one another for the fullness of life and the Kingdom.

Prayerfully,

Brian