November 23-29: Amos; Obadiah; Jonah
"See the Lord, and Ye Shall Live"
Ty Mecham (American, born UK, 1974)
Herbs & Spices (2018)
Photograph, 14 x 20 inches
Created for the client Spice Islands with Tara Teaspoon as food stylist and Veronica Olson as prop stylist
Used with permission of the artist
The book of Amos features the prophet Amos delivering strong warnings against Israel for injustice, corruption, and neglect of the poor. Declaring that their outward religious practices cannot hide their wrongdoing. He announces that judgment is coming but also ends with a promise of future restoration. Obadiah focuses on the nation of Edom, condemning them for pride and for taking advantage of Israel during its time of trouble, and declares that justice will come upon them. The book of Jonah tells the story of Jonah, who initially runs from God’s command to preach to Nineveh but is redirected after being swallowed by a great fish. When Jonah finally delivers God’s message, the people of Nineveh repent, and God shows mercy, teaching Jonah an important lesson about compassion.
The themes of mercy and justice are everywhere in these books. God is concerned with how we live, and how we treat others. In Jonah, God’s compassion extends outside of Israel, beyond even what his prophet expects. These books highlight the tension between human attitudes and God’s broader perspective, encouraging us to be humble. As we try to understand the world of the Bible, one way to contemporize it is through food. Have you eaten ingredients that the figures in the Bible likely consumed? Consider Ty Mecham's photograph Herbs and Spices, as you reflect on what life was possibly like in the era of Amos, Obadiah, and Jonah.
Gospel Questions
1. Amos warns the Israelites of their hypocrisy. When was the last time you found hypocrisy within yourself?
2. Jonah was angry when God was merciful to the people of Ninevah. In our modern world marred by tribes and polarization who do you struggle to be merciful to?
3. What would accepting responsibility look like in your life?
For Children and Youth
Hi. God wants people to be fair, kind, and humble. He also shows that He cares for everyone and wants people to change and do what is right.
1. What are some things you do that are kind?
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