Sunday Bloody Sunday

But the righteous shall live by his faith. - Habakkuk 2:4b

There is a song by U2 that begins, “I can’t believe the news today…” The song is about one of the darkest days in Ireland’s history, where fourteen protesters in Northern Ireland were killed by the British Army in 1972. Fast forward 48 years and the song is still relevant. Those involved may be different, but what we see in the news is just as horrifying or even worse than 1972. Whether it is parents abusing their children or doctors abusing their patients, we are seeing abuse at every level of leadership around the world. How long could this continue? Where is God when innocent people are being abused and have no hope? It is a question that is not only on my mind but many others as well. In Habakkuk, there is a dialog between the prophet and God. Habakkuk asks God, “How long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? … Why do you idly look at wrong?” He is asking the same questions we are asking him when we see injustice. God’s answer is difficult for us to understand. In verse 5 he answers, “Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told” (1:5). It is an answer that requires faith in God, and that He is not only in control, but also He loves His people. It is often difficult for us to understand God’s actions or inaction in challenging times. It is during challenging times that requires our faith in Him. As we face this new year, let us trust in God and remember that “the righteous shall live by his faith.”