As another year comes to a close, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the whirlwind of events that have shaped our world, our faith, and our relationships. This has been a year marked by division, grief, and uncertainty—both in the world around us and within the church.

The re-election of Donald Trump has once again placed evangelicals at the center of political debate, with voices of outrage and accusations of hypocrisy ringing loudly. Meanwhile, missile strikes authorized by Joe Biden have left many fearing the potential spark of a global conflict. Memories of the COVID-19 pandemic linger as lawsuits against vaccine companies unfold, long COVID persists, and revelations about social media censorship stir fresh debates. Amid this tumult, both believers and non-believers grapple with the same haunting question: Where is God in all of this?

The Cry of Habakkuk: How Long, Lord?

This question is not new. The prophet Habakkuk wrestled with it centuries ago as he looked upon the evil and injustice in his time. “How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, ‘Violence!’ but you do not save?” (Habakkuk 1:2).

It’s a cry many of us have echoed this year. How long must we persist in the face of division, suffering, and evil? How long will the vulnerable suffer under unjust systems? How long will families and communities remain fractured by political and social ideologies?

Yet Habakkuk’s story reminds us that God is not absent. His reply to Habakkuk is clear: “For the revelation awaits an appointed time… Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay” (Habakkuk 2:3). God’s justice and mercy are never rushed, but they are certain.

Living in a Time of Tension

For Christians, this in-between time—between the world’s brokenness and the fulfillment of God’s kingdom—can feel unbearable. The weight of the year’s events leaves us weary, and the scoffing of non-believers can shake our resolve. Yet, this is also the time when our faith and service are most critical.

This year has revealed the deep fractures in society, but it’s also exposed the church’s calling: to be the hands and feet of Christ in a broken world. As Paul writes in Galatians 6:9, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Serving Others Amid Uncertainty

What does this look like as we step into a new year?

• Extend Grace in a Divided World
  In a year of political and social turmoil, we are called to rise above the fray. This doesn’t mean avoiding difficult conversations but approaching them with humility and a desire to understand rather than to win.
• Care for the Vulnerable
  Whether it’s supporting those suffering from long COVID, standing with those who feel voiceless, or providing practical help to neighbors in need, our love in action speaks louder than any words.
• Hold Fast to Hope
  The world may question where God is, but we know that He is present—in our prayers, our actions, and the quiet moments of grace we experience even amid chaos. Our hope is not in politicians, policies, or lawsuits but in the eternal promise of Christ.
• Be a Light in the Darkness
  When non-believers scoff or despair overwhelms, our response can be a testimony of God’s faithfulness. As Jesus said, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

Looking Ahead: A Year of Opportunity

As we enter a new year, let’s not merely carry the burdens of the past but use them as a reminder of our purpose. The world is watching how we, as Christians, respond to hardship and injustice. Will we turn inward, or will we rise to the call of service and love?

Let’s choose to reflect Christ in a world desperate for hope. Let’s ask ourselves:

• How can I be a source of peace in my community?
• How can I serve those hurting around me?
• How can I embody Christ’s love to a skeptical and divided world?

Where Is God Now?

He is here. He is with the grieving widow, the overwhelmed healthcare worker, the child living in poverty, and the friend grappling with doubt. And He is with you.

This new year is a chance to recommit ourselves to God’s work. Let’s persist in faith, just as Habakkuk did, trusting that even when we cannot see the full picture, God is still in control.

May we enter this year not weary but renewed, ready to serve, to love, and to reflect the unchanging hope we have in Christ.