They have been untrue to the Lord

Bishop Bernard F. Popp

 

Join me in chapter 5 of Hosea. We have seen that Hosea served as a prophet to Israel in the northern kingdom from 753-715 BC. He had a big job because Israel’s last six kings were especially wicked. They promoted heavy taxes, oppression of the poor, idol worship and total disregard for God. Israel was subjected to Assyria and was
forced to pay tribute, which robbed its few remaining resources.

The main message of Hosea was that the people of Israel had sinned against God as an adulteress sins against her husband. They were sure to be judged for living in total disregard for God and their fellow humans. Hosea saw the nation fall to Assyria in 722 BC.

This was the main message of the prophet Hosea: When we sin, we sever our relationship with God, which breaks our commitment to him. While all must answer to God for their sins, those who seek God’s forgiveness are spared eternal judgment.

What does the prophet Hosea say to me today? Hosea wants the people to return in their fidelity to God. How present is the Lord to me today? How do I depend on the Lord for my decisions today in serving him?

Retired Auxiliary Bishop Bernard F. Popp has an interest in Old Testament scholarship. He currently resides at Casa de Padres.