Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, Lord. (Hab. 3:2)
Illustrious achievers in arts, sports, or other professions are often recognized as Hall of Famers. They are honored for their achievements and reputable performance. Their records, championships, and other accomplishments bring them fame and make them eligible for such nominations. However, the prodigious glory and work of Hall of Famers have a limited life span. People can only remain at the top of their game for so long.
Habakkuk testified to God’s fame in his heartfelt prayer—and voiced his admiration at how his glorious deeds inspire reverence. Then, he begged God to “do over” his exploits so the current generation could experience them. Finally, he appealed to God’s mercy in times of wrath (v. 2). The prophet wanted God’s flawless reputation and profound mercy to be known to the people in Judah.
God, the most excellent Hall of Famer, welcomes us to his. His Hall of Fame includes all those heroes of faith, those martyrs who have suffered for the sake of the gospel, and those holy men and women whose exemplary lives have marked history. He calls all Christians who benefit from his grace and mercy, who aim at giving testimony of his unrivaled fame and his good deeds, and who strive to excel in the life of holiness, to live lives worthy of those chosen to be his Hall of Famers.
Let us proclaim the fame of the most excellent Hall of Famer.
Handy Calixte is an ordained pastor of L’Église Wesleyenne d’Haïti and likes writing about various biblical topics. He and his wife, Johane, have three children.
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
