“Well, here we are . . .”
Dave Garroway, the original host of NBC’s Today show, opened the very first airing with these words on January 14, 1952.
They were originally spoken with anxious anticipation of good things to come, but when I read or listen to the news today, I hear the same words in my mind with very different intonation.
Here we are. Polarized, divided, violent, irreverent. God has been pushed to the sidelines. Our leaders are often lacking in Christian discipline and maturity, and the Bible has been shelved as an authoritative word in guiding laws and cultural norms.
Here we are. The world is a mess – and we know it. It’s a different time but not too dissimilar a situation to what Micah has been describing throughout his writings. There is a tension throughout the book of Micah of God’s impending, holy wrath balanced by his ultimate merciful forgiveness.
Today’s verses from Micah 7:18-19 let us celebrate God’s mercy.
“There is no other God like you! You forgive sin and pardon the rebellion of those who remain among your people. You do not remain angry forever, but delight in showing loyal love. You will once again have mercy on us; you will conquer our evil deeds; you will hurl our sins into the depths of the sea.”
Micah’s words were penned in the face of uncertainty, difficulty and an incomplete picture of how everything would turn out, but Micah’s theology about God was correct. God upheld his promises to the patriarchs and showed mercy (yet again) on Israel.
Yes, our world is a mess. We are wayward, sinful people. But, because of who God is, we know that he remains steadfast and will ultimately redeem our brokenness and disobedience. He offers unmerited grace and compassionate mercy. On this side of the cross, believers are covered by the blood of Jesus Christ, and our sins are erased.
The same NBC anchor mentioned above had a characteristic sign off on the show. He would hold up one hand, palm out and say, “Peace.”
Here we are, but peace awaits. God is fighting for us at this moment, and His peace will reign in the end.