Amos 5:24 But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!

Today’s Scripture reading includes strong language from God. God “hates” the Israelite’s religious festivals. Their assemblies are a “stench.” God calls their songs “noise” and says he “will not accept” their offerings. What gives? The Israelites weren’t perfect, but wasn’t there at least a little bit of good in their worship? They may have had societal problems, but surely God could’ve acknowledged the few things they were doing right—right?

In Amos’s day, Israel was marked by religiosity, systematized injustice, exploitation, and idolatry. It’s easy to see parallels between this ancient society and our own. Modern society is struggling with many of the same problems and a host of others. So, how does God see our worship today? Is it possible that God sees our religious practices as a “stench” too?

Unfortunately, the answer might be yes. These verses reveal how upset God becomes when injustice is unchallenged by his people. We may practice our religion with daily quiet times and Sunday morning services, but if we allow injustice to flourish in our society, or if we participate in systemic oppression, then even our best tries at religion may not be accepted by God.

In Scripture, God consistently longs for social action to flow from changed hearts. Jesus taught that all the law and the prophets “hang on” two great commandments: “Love the Lord your God” and “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:36-40). He also condemned religiosity (Luke 11:37-52). And in numerous parables—like the good Samaritan—he helps us imagine the Kingdom of God, where what is wrong is made right. God cares deeply about changed hearts fighting for justice.

Do you have a heart changed by the love of God? If so, that’s wonderful! The question is, how will you challenge injustice in your community as a result of God’s love for you? Draw on his justification of you and seek justice for those around you.

Some Jews mistakenly believed performing ritual sacrifices would keep God from punishing them, even though they consistently did things He called evil. They said God was among them, yet their treatment of His Law and one another did not reflect His presence. The nation would be punished and sent into exile. Despite the coming judgment, there was hope for anyone who turned from evil and chose to do good. Amos made the choice clear: individuals could continue to seek evil and be destroyed or seek the Lord and live.