Habakkuk 1:1-4
1 The oracle that the prophet Habakkuk saw.
2 O Lord, how long shall I cry for help,
and you will not listen?
Or cry to you “Violence!”
and you will not save?
3 Why do you make me see wrongdoing
and look at trouble?
Destruction and violence are before me;
strife and contention arise.
4 So the law becomes slack,
and justice never prevails.
The wicked surround the righteous;
therefore judgment comes forth perverted.
Destruction and violence are before me; strife and contention arise.
This morning, I sent the following message to the congregation I serve. It seems to be a fitting devotion for this text on this day as well:
Dear Friends in Christ:
Yesterday, for reasons known only to himself and God, a man attacked a congregation while they were gathered for worship. Four people were killed, many more were injured, and the church was burned to the ground.
My heart is broken. My instinct is to run and hide. My fears for your safety are almost unbearable. I imagine you’re having similar thoughts right now.
I am also resting in the Sure and Certain Hope of the Resurrection. We no longer fear death, or any of the death-dealing things in this world, because our lives are hidden in Christ.
Throughout history, the Church has thrived during persecution. Our brave ancestors worshipped underground when they had to as well as openly, in the face of danger. Their example of faithfulness and courage gives me hope today.
We will not run away and hide. We WILL do everything in our power to keep our worship services and our preschool safe. And, most importantly, we will continue to worship and glorify God, boldly and fearlessly at St. Johns Lutheran Church, and in our daily lives.
Prayer: Jesus, Our Good Shepherd: We’re scattered, frightened, and confused. Call us together around you. AMEN