The Daily Office for February 23, 2012

Scriptures

Psalm 37:1-18
Habakkuk 3:1-18
Philippians 3:12-21
John 17:1-8

Reading (Habakkuk 3:1-18)

Habakkuk 3:1-18

Reflection

This prayer (tepilah in Hebrew or song of praise). It was written to be used as a part of the public worship services of Israel. The description indicates that the song was set to Shigionoth, which refers to the kind of music with which the psalm was to be accompanied. It is to be a song that is sung triumphantly and in great excitement. Though the prophecy given is dark because it involves the judgment and destruction of Judah, the prophet is not discouraged or defeated for he knows that ultimately Chaldea will be destroyed, Israel will be exalted, and Jehovah’s glory will fill the earth.

In reflecting upon the majesty of God and what He will do in the future, the prophet turns his eyes to what God has done in the past. Just as He manifested His majesty before, He will also manifest it in the future for God dwells in the eternal present. As we think about our daily needs and concerns it is important to remember that God is always faithful and ever present for those who trust in Him. He will never fail or forsake us. How do we know? Because He has been faithful to His people for thousands of years so we have proof that this is an integral part of His wonderful, Divine character.

Collect for the Day

Almighty God, who gave to your servant Polycarp boldness to confess the name of our Saviour Jesus Christ before the rulers of this world and courage to die for his faith: grant that we also may be ready to give an answer for the faith that is in us and to suffer gladly for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.