In today's Old Testament Reading, the prophet Amos, though previously a herdsman and
dresser of sycamore figs, must speak, for the Lord has called him. His word of judgment is only part of the message; in other places, he calls people to choose the Lord and live and also announces a great reversal. It is dangerous being a prophet, as John the Baptist learned in the Holy Gospel. But we know the end of the story: before creation, we were
destined to salvation, as we read in the Epistle. Whatever we face, our faith tells us to listen to what the Lord has to say before paying attention to any other voice. "He will speak peace to His people" (Psalm 85:8).