By Rev. Dr. Dawn Darwin Weaks
Pastor, Connection Christian Church
“Take away the noise of your songs;
I won’t listen to the melody of your harps.
But let justice roll down like waters,
and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” – Amos 5:23,24
I love Christmas music, do you? I am blessed to enjoy a musical family. I hear strings, piano, flute, and singing all the time at my house around the holidays. But it turns out, according to the biblical prophet Amos, that is definitely not God’s favorite part of Christmas.
It’s not that music is bad. Not at all. The problem is that God’s people sometimes think that all they need to do is sing some songs with just the right instrumentation and God is pleased. Far from it, the prophet warns us. Instead, what God wants is justice for those who are oppressed, for the hungry to be fed, for the lowly to be lifted up. That is what is music to God’s ears.
So in the midst of all the beautiful music shared by wonderfully talented people that we enjoy this time of year, let’s think about what is music to God’s ears.
How are we helping the homeless? Salvation Army can help you help them (432-332-0738). How are we looking out for the orphan? Court Appointed Special Advocates can assist you with that (432-498-4174).
What can we do for the refugees in our midst? Catholic Charities leads the way in showing us how (432-332-1387). How are we caring for the elderly and ill among us? Meals on Wheels can help you get on that. (432-333-6451). How are we sheltering the abused? Crisis Center of West Texas is full and still serving in every way (432-333-2527). Many others are working to help you help others. How will you give of your time, your prayers, and your funds this season to be a part of a fountain of justice and blessing for others?
The answer you give is the Christmas song God most wants to hear. And it will truly bring Joy to the World!
