As We Lament
The book of Lamentations is a collection of five poems that express grief and mourning over the destruction of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile. The poems are written in a variety of styles, but they all share a common theme of lament, which is the expression of deep sorrow and loss.
Lamentations is a valuable book for anyone who has experienced trauma. It offers a safe space to express our grief and to acknowledge the pain that we are feeling. It also reminds us that we are not alone in our suffering.
I never expected to need help coping with trauma until I was in the thick of it. Life can take quick, unexpected turns. As one pastor reminds us, we are all one simple phone call away from life change. A diagnosis, or loss, or break-up can happen at any moment. During these times of upheaval, Lamentations has been a guide for me and for many others.
Here are a few thoughts that have helped me as I’ve processed this book.
It is okay to grieve. Lamentations teaches us that it is okay to grieve our losses, even if they are caused by our own mistakes or by the sins of others. We do not need to pretend that we are not hurting.
God understands our suffering. Lamentations is a book of prayers, and in these prayers, the author expresses his deepest pain and sorrow to God. The book reminds us that God is not afraid of our tears or our anger. He understands our suffering, and he is with us in the midst of it.
There is hope, even in the midst of despair. The book of Lamentations ends with a glimmer of hope. The author reminds us that God's love is everlasting, and that he will eventually redeem his people. This hope can give us strength to endure our suffering and to keep going, even when things seem hopeless.
If you have experienced trauma, I encourage you to read the book of Lamentations. It is a book that can help you to process your pain and to find hope in the midst of despair.
A few reminders …
Be gentle with yourself. Take time with your grief. It comes like waves, so dig into books like this when things are calm and cling to those truths when the waters surge.
Read Lamentations in community. Reach out. Really. And, for those of us who aren’t in the middle of upheaval, let’s make sure we’re reaching out to others.
Don't be afraid to ask for help. Sometimes we need specialized help. I’ve read books by counselors and have been in therapy. While it isn’t a quick cure-all, it’s helped me stay anchored and learn how to heal.
May God bless you on your journey of healing.
Pastor Tim
