The book of Amos is a book both of judgment and mercy. When I read the words of Amos 9:11-12, I cannot help but be struck by the incredible promise of restoration that God offers to His people.
The prophet Amos speaks of a day when the fallen tent of David will be restored. The term “tent” is translated in various ways. The term “tent” is appropriate because the original Hebrew used a word for a temporary dwelling. God would bring in the eternal dwelling. The prophecy goes on to speak of when the breaches in its walls will be repaired, and it will once again stand strong. And not only that, but God promises that His people will possess the remnant of Edom and all the nations who are called by His name. The idea here could be “gentiles” as all those people groups who are not Jews or actual nation states who recognize the God of Israel.
What a beautiful picture of the mercy and grace of our God! Despite the sins and failings of His people, He promises to restore them, bring them back into His loving embrace, and give them a place of prominence. Not only that, but He promises to extend His blessings to all who call on His name.
But let us not forget that this promise of restoration is not a license to sin or to take God’s mercy for granted. We must remember that God’s promises come with a call to holiness and obedience. As Amos says in verse 13, “The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when the reaper will be overtaken by the plowman and the planter by the one treading grapes. New wine will drip from the mountains and flow from all the hills, and I will bring my people Israel back from exile.”
So let’s take two things to heart. First, God is said to be reconciling the world to Himself through Christ Jesus. Like the promise in Amos, this comes despite previous rebellion. If you have been one of those living in disobedience, living apart from the provisions of God, Jesus has come to reconcile you to the Father and bring to you the spiritual blessings of being his child. For those who have embraced the promises found in Jesus, remember, the promise of restoration is coupled with the call to live in obedience to God’s will. And so, my friend, let us strive to live in a manner that is pleasing to God, so that we may enjoy the blessings of His restoration.
