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A Recap from Sunday’s Sermon

Preaching Text: Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 25: 1-13

The Bible is full of warnings.  God warns us because he loves us.  Furthermore, he saves us for the purpose of worshiping him and being a light to others.  Put more memorably, we are saved to: 

Know God and make him known.

Both lectionary readings for today are included because they share a focus on the “Day of the Lord,” a specific day in the future when the Lord will come in power and put all things right. 

Text #1 is from Amos 5.  The prophet uses stark language to criticize the worship practices of Israel.  Although fine liturgically, their worship failed to result in justice and righteousness flowing out into society.  Justice should “roll down” (Amos 5:24) from their experience of God. 

Text #2 is from Matthew 25.  There, Jesus tells a parable of 10 virgins attending a wedding.  Their job was to wait at the bride’s home until the groom and both sets of parents arrived at her house for the exchange of vows, then lead a grand procession through the village at night.  This required making sufficient provision for the oil torches.  Half of the virgins in the parable dishonored the bridal party by failing to make provisions for oil.  They are rejected by the groom who says, “I never knew you,” a logical consequence of their failure to know his wishes and honor him.  

The whole point of both biblical texts is to know the Lord’s wishes and honor them by living for his kingdom and always expecting his return. On that “Day,” there will be excitement and joy for some and shame for others.  

Taking It Home: Discuss with your family or household the habits and activities you currently do that you would be proud to show Jesus when he returns.