Amos had been concerned with the inequality between the rich and the poor in Israel. Here he declared that Israel's covenant with God did not mean that they didn't have an ethical responsibility. On the contrary, because of their covenant with God, the Israelites had a greater responsibility to look after the poor and the vulnerable. Amos felt called to prophesy, that is, to tell the people they were wrong, and they needed to return to God.

In our day, we could also use this advice as we wit-ness the division between the rich and the poor. As the people of God, what are we doing to make a difference in our world?

Jesus and the disciples were out in a boat when a violent windstorm came and threatened to sink the boat. Naturally, the disciples were frightened, but Jesus remained asleep! When they woke Jesus up, he seemed untroubled by the violent storm and commanded the wind to stop. The sea became calm. Jesus questioned the disciples' fear and lack of faith. But the disciples were amazed and questioned the identity of Jesus when the winds and sea obeyed him. What is your question? Are you willing to trust Jesus with your life?