In October 2020, I was commissioned to write a liturgical piece to accompany our pastor’s sermon series through the book of Amos.
Behold, the Word of God upon the vine
Along its trellis grows, but is without
The fruit of righteousness, though it is time.
The summer fruit for us shall be a sign:
The season’s end portends a coming drought.
Behold, the Word of God upon the vine–
The vine of love and peace–has yet to climb,
To flower in joy and patience. Without doubt,
The fruit of righteousness, though it is time
To ripen into hopeful light to shine
Amongst the poor has wilted. Hear the shout:
“Behold, the Word of God upon the vine
Accuses each and every wicked crime.”
Our vine has yet to flower or to sprout;
The fruit of righteousness, though it is time
Is dead. So hear the Holy Lord assign
A famine of His Word. We, though devout,
Neglect the Word of God upon the vine.
Our fruitless righteousness shall rot with time.
(October 25, 2020)
