“Violence!” is not new. We see and hear of violence and weep. We thrill to violence in entertainment and some sports. We see violence play out ruinously in homes and families. “Violence!” is an old evil story.
In Habakkuk 1:2, 4 the prophet cries out, “O Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you “Violence!” and you will not save?” He complains, “Why do you make me see iniquity, and why do you idly look at wrong?” He says, “So the law is paralyzed and justice never goes forth.”
Violence is a symptom of our rebellion against God. Genesis 6:13 reminds us that God brought the great flood in Noah’s day because “the earth is filled with violence.” Ezekiel 7:23 speaks of Judah’s captivity in the Exile as the result of violence, “Forge a chain! For the land is full of bloody crimes and the city is full of violence.”
Today people cry out, “Do something!” We look to politicians. Yet, are they the remedy? Legislation may mitigate some problems, but such a focus misses the true need. If we are to “Do something!” see the example of the King of Nineveh. In Jonah 3:8 the King calls on his people to accept their responsibility for the sins of their land. He called for a fast and wearing sackcloth as he said, “Let everyone turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands.” Is this what our leaders say?
I hear about gun control, mental illness, hardening schools and other soft targets, violence in video games and entertainment media. Perhaps, something can be done in some of these areas. Yet, the true need is for us to have an attitude adjustment. As a people we need to individually and corporately turn from violence. Violence sent the Son to the cross where He died in our place. We need look to our risen Lord as we turn from sin, if we are to have true healing in our land.
(Editor’s Note: This column is written by a different Littlefield pastor for the Leader-News each week. The columns are published on this page on Wednesdays.)