Faith in Action: Embodying Justice and the Power of the Spirit (05/06/'24)

Faith in Action: Embodying Justice and the Power of the Spirit Prayer at doing emphasizes the importance of genuine acts of justice and righteousness over merely performing religious rituals. It critiques superficial religious observances, as exemplified by the rejection of festivals, offerings, and music, which are deemed meaningless without the underlying ethical behavior: "I hate, I despise your festivals, and I take no delight in your solemn assemblies. Even though you offer me your offerings I will not accept them...Take away from me the noise of your songs; I will not listen to the melody of yours. But let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream" (Amos 5.21-24). The call to action is clear—justice and righteousness should be as pervasive and continuous as a flowing stream. This expression of faith through action continues with an urging to provide rest to the weary, help to the needy, and support to the poor. These acts are presented as the true essence of prayer, emphasizing that prayer is not just spoken or meditated upon, but actively practiced through helping others: "THIS IS PRAYER AT DOINGS." The passage also conveys a message of empowerment and possibility that stems from faith: "ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE if a person believes." It connects this theme to the promise of receiving the Holy Spirit, which will endow individuals with power from heaven, transforming them and enabling them to live out their faith more fully: "You will BE BAPTIZED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT...but when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, you will receive power" (Acts 1.5,8). This power is meant to encourage believers to stay committed to their faith until they are imbued with this divine strength. Pastor Steven G. Lee (May 6, 2024)