This call is to preach repentance. And that sounds scary. Calling people to account for their behavior isn't going to win many friends. Telling them that they need to change (and so do we) isn't often endearing.
But there is more to preaching repentance than speaking hard words. The main part of it actually to simply "exist for the praise of his glory". We live our lives in such a way that they openly display that we have received "every spiritual blessing". We make it obvious that our lives depend entirely on the "riches of his grace that he lavished on upon us." We don't hide the fact that Jesus is the center of our lives. If he truly is central this is impossible. When the world sees what Jesus does in people who rely on him we will scarcely have the chance to speak the invitation before they turn to him.
We may sympathize with Amos. We may come from a normal life without the background or credentials of a prophet. But even we are called, "Go prophesy to my people Israel." The LORD needs more than the court prophets who prophesy for their pay. He needs witnesses to his work in the lives of his people. His people, not merely the religious class, are the ones to whom he gives "every spiritual blessing". Let us put those blessings on display and share them with the world.
The Twelve drove out many demons,
and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.
The word is repentance sounds like it might be scary. It sounds like a hard word and we are slow to proclaim it. But it is the word of life!
I will hear what God proclaims;
the LORD —for he proclaims peace.
Near indeed is his salvation to those who fear him,
glory dwelling in our land.
Let us remain silent no longer!
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