Lent - Week Two - Habakkuk

Lent -  Week Two - Habakkuk

Moving through some of the Minor Prophets we come upon Habakkuk, wherein we might find ourselves in similar situations once we realize our need for God’s help.  When we find we are in imminent danger because of sinful mistakes whom else can we look to?  Lent reminds us there is always a safety net; it is Christ who paid the price for our sins.

“How long, O Lord?  I cry for help but you do not listen!  I cry out to you, “Violence”!   but you do not intervene.  Why do you let me see ruin; why must I look at misery?  Destruction and violence are before me; there is strife, and clamorous discord.”   (Hb. 1: 2 - 3). 

At times our very situations may appear to be similar, especially when embarrassment or worse seem to be the only escape from our own weaknesses.  It is here and at this present time that an opportunity presents itself as there is light at the end of the tunnel.  

“Then the Lord answered me and said:  Write down the vision clearly upon the tablets, so that one can read it readily.  For the vision still has its time, presses on to fulfillment, and will not disappoint; If it delays, wait for it, it will surely come, it will not be late.  The rash man has no integrity; but the just man, because of his faith, shall live.”  (Hb. 2: 2 -3).  

Never give up no matter how far down human weakness may drag us.  Your faith can not be taken away when the grace of God becomes your safety net.

“O Lord, I have heard your renown, and feared, O Lord, your work.  In the course of the years revive it, in the course of the years make it known; in your wrath remember compassion.”  “Covered are the heavens with his glory, and with his praise the earth is filled.  His splendor spreads like the light; rays shine forth from beside him, where his power is concealed.”  (Hb. 3: 2, 3a - 4).

This is what Lent is all about; a time to bow on our knees, reach out to the one who goes before us; Jesus Christ who feels our pain.

Ralph B. Hathaway, Lent, Week Two; Habakkuk