Lament in Times of Trouble
Who is not troubled by our world and our country today? Political violence and an assassination attempt. Divisive and hurtful language in our politics. The war in Ukraine and the Mideast. Any number of crises from more hurricanes, more violence, and more heat. It feels frightening! It feels scary! How can we cope as usual? Where is relief to come from when everything seems to go wrong?
They say that everything is found in the Bible. Tragedy is certainly found among many of the Bible’s stories, beginning with the “fall” in Garden of Eden to Jesus’ death on the cross. How do we, as people called Christians and those who have been given the Holy Spirit to be our guide, respond in faith to a scary world?
Psalm 23 is a well-known song to an ever-present Spirit. Before that calm and relaxing poem is Psalm 22, a lament which outlines the need we find ourselves in when difficulties overwhelm us. There are ways to use lament as a spiritual practice when dealing with the crushing weight of sorrow and fear — when apprehension becomes a seemingly constant companion. Lament can be a deeply spiritual and theological process to help us cope with difficulties and fear.
If you are troubled by the world today, take time to read and reread Psalm 22. The Rev. Lisa Degrenia, a UMC elder and founder of The Caring Congregation, which supports a culture of care in all churches, says there are four ways we can respond to lament:
- Talk or journal honestly about your troubles
- Take time to affirm trust in God
- Ask for God’s help
- Praising God for what God has done in the world and in your life
What would it be like to practice lament in your own life? You might want to reach out to others to talk honestly about your fears. Reaching out to your pastor or a trusted counselor could help you deal with the overwhelming feelings and reactions to the world today. For some, peace might be found in spending dedicated time each day in prayerful meditation and reflection with the scriptures. If you’re going through a time of transition or loss, you might consider speaking with one of our Stephen Ministers, trained lay ministers offering Christian care, love, and support.
The Gospel never promises or guarantees a world or a life without trouble and strife. But we are guaranteed that God will always be with us, walking alongside us, and leading the way. As we lament, let us take moments to pause in prayer and praise.
Have a reflection or devotional you’d like to share? Email mcomer@ststephenumc.net for consideration.