Habakkuk 1:1-4 (NIV)
Read by: Clayton
Our culture delights in Christmastime. We love the magic of lights and decorations, good food, presents under the tree, and feel-good holiday films. And of course these things have their place. But even in the best years, we know that regardless of all the trappings . . . pain, loss and conflict are still present—even highlighted in stark contrast to the experience we work so hard to create.
As we walk together through Advent, we’re building a new frame around our understanding of the season. And as the first week of Advent drew us into a deeper longing for the new heavens and the new earth, as we remembered the way things were meant to be and looked forward to the peace, safety and joy of God’s eternal future, the second week of Advent allows and even calls us into lament. We long for our ultimate future, but it’s definitely not here yet. And this year more than most, we are tired. We need something more substantial than wrapping paper and tinsel. And we need permission to grieve.
This week we will be wading into the dark waters of lament. If you feel like you’re already drowning, the invitation is to hold fast to your Father. Allow the strength of his grasp to increase your faith. And If you have a hard time engaging lament, the invitation is the same. Hold fast to your Father. He knows your grief, your sadness, and the fear you might have in entering into them.
Today’s passage shows us that our God is fully capable of bearing our questions, our frustrations, and our complaints—even complaints against him. The prophet Habakkuk is really different from the other Old Testament Prophets. Instead of calling Israel out on some sin or injustice or speaking to the people on God’s behalf, Habakkuk speaks in poems of lament addressed to God himself. His struggle is to believe that God is good in the midst of such a broken world. Can you relate?
As you listen, try to notice the feelings that come up in you. Do you feel free to question God or express anger towards him? Do you feel guilty or ashamed to even consider feeling that way? Where is your heart?
----------REFLECT----------
1. What did you hear in the passage? Was there a word or phrase that stood out to you?
2. Advent gives us permission to be sad and to ask, “How Long, Lord?” Is there a particular place in your life, a person or experience that is breaking your heart today? Try to bring that to the Lord in honesty.
3. Take some time today to sit with the words of this passage. If there is something specific God has spoken to you, take some time to process that alone or with a friend.
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Living The Christian Year by Bobby Gross >>
Bible Project: Advent Series >>
Bible Project: Habakkuk >>
IVP Advent Selections >>
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