Habakkuk is another of the Jewish prophets who ministered at the crucial juncture after the destruction of the Northern Kingdom of Israel but before the temple in Jerusalem was burnt to the ground — late seventh century, early sixth centure B.C. (Habakkuk is an important figure in Islam as well so he has two tombs! — one in Palestine and one in Iran.) He is a carrot and stick prophet — urging the people to repentance before catastrophe struck while promising God’s redemption no matter what. 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. While there is no evidence that Habakkuk himself went into exile there is a scene in the Book of Daniel where an angel carries Habakkuk to the lion’s den where Daniel is imprisoned to bring supper. For us today his message resonates — let us change our ways all the while trusting in the plan of God.
