As I reflected of the words of the prophet Amos today, my thoughts turned to the committee that is investigating the violence that occurred on January 6 at the Capitol of the United States. People who were enlisted to witness before the committee spoke of the egregious abuse of power. In the words of the prophet Amos, “They trample the heads of the weak into the dust of the earth, and force the lowly out of the way.”
What surprised many who tuned in to listen to the proceedings was the frequent use of Biblical references and quotes those witnesses used as they shared their experience of what they saw and experienced. Prominent and high-ranking figures refused to give in to the pressure to lie and do things that were unethical.
One high-ranking official spoke of his time alone in his hotel room before being called to respond to questioning by committee members. He said he sat alone reading quotes about courage and watching a church elder’s video about being a peacemaker. He sought to bring conciliation and not conflict. An aide to the Vice President of the United States sent him a message upon completion of his testimony. “I ran the race; I kept the faith.”
Remember what these men and women like them did. As in the day of Amos when the poor and the head of the poor were trampled under feet, down to the present, the poor continue to be trampled and babies yet unborn are canceled.
In his gospel today, Saint Matthew reminded us that not everyone was taken in by Jesus’ message although inclined. They were genuinely moved but not yet ready to take the next step. No so for the public officials who may have lost their political fortunes and instead chose to follow Jesus and His teachings.
Remember this. Our God reigns and people continue to advocate for the unbeautiful people of our time. Following Christ and His teachings is still their number one priority. May it also be ours.
