Join me in chapter 10 of the prophet Hosea. In verse one of chapter 10, Israel is called ‘a luxuriant vine.’ The comparison of Israel to a choice vine planted and tendered by God is already found in Genesis 49:22.

It will be used again and again by the later prophets (cf Is 5:1-7; Jer 2:21; 12:10); it is used by a psalmist (Ps 80:8 ff). It is used by Jesus in the New Testament (see Mt 21:33-44 and Jn 15:1-8).

It is implied in some passages that God, having cared so tenderly for Israel, his vine, looks forward to fruits of love and devotion in return.

What did God receive in return? The prophet Hosea reminds the people of these in chapter 10.

The more abundant the fruit of the vine, the more altars Israel built to the false god, Baal. (cf. verse 1)

The prophet Hosea tells the people: “Sow for yourselves justice, reap the fruit of piety; break up for yourselves a new field for it is time to seek the Lord till he comes and rains down justice upon you.” (verse 12)

Did the people listen to the prophet and repent? Verse 13 tells us: “You have cultivated wickedness, reaped perversity and eaten the fruit of falsehood.” (verse 13) The year is 722 BC.

Retired Auxiliary Bishop Bernard F. Popp has an interest in Old Testament scholarship. He currently resides at Padua Place, and this year marks his 65th anniversary of ordination to the priesthood, as well as the 25th anniversary of his ordination to the episcopacy on July 25.