We have expectations in this life. We know what McDonald’s will taste like, we know it will be hot in the summer, and we know that the dead don’t come back to life. However, listen to the story of the Gardener.

Saddle Up - When the devil has Jesus in the wilderness, he is encouraging Jesus to saddle up, to take charge and make something of himself. So often we want to saddle up and make something of ourselves. However, Jesus said “no” and instead rode through life as a servant. 

Strength of Tin Foil - Coke cans not only look but are strong. In their unopened state they are engineered to hold tons a weight in shipping. However an empty can looks the same but can be crushed with small pressure. Amos is showing us that if we want to look as powerful as the babylons of the world, we can be crushed like an empty can. However, the Lord’s Kingdom does not give off the appearance of strength but love.  

Chasing after Egyptian Horses - It is a well known fact to the people of God that they ought not to go back to Egypt. Do not chase after the things of Egypt. Do not do the things of Egypt. However, we see the king of Israel marrying an Egyptian wife and chasing after Egyptian horses and having slave labor build the temple. God’s people are looking at the Day of the Lord square in the eye.

Egypt has become Babylon, but I remember the day when God passed over us and conquered our enemies. I remember the day when all my friends came over for my birthday. I remember all the days with family and friends were celebrated and had a great meal.

Egypt has become Babylon because they are refusing to acknowledge Yahweh as the one true God. Egypt has redefined good and evil so that murdering children and enslaving immigrants is seen as good. We see their cities of “brick and mortar’ are built on the blood of the innocent. 

There's a problem; it is seen all through the first 11 chapters of Genesis. Sin is everywhere, and everyone is defining right and wrong for themselves. We see this at the tower of Babylon with people trying to make a name for themselves.