Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“Today also my complaint is bitter; his hand is heavy despite my groaning. O that I knew where I might find him, that I might come even to his dwelling! I would lay my case before him, and fill my mouth with arguments. I would learn what he would answer me and understand what he would say to me. Would he contend with me in the greatness of his power? No; but he would give heed to me.”
NL Daily Devotion for Wednesday, July 1, 2020
by R. Fergus Moir, Clergy Stuff
Lament is a lost practice in most of our faith communities. When God’s people lament, they call God to the table and take their own place as partners in the covenant relationship with God. They hold God accountable for God’s promises.
It’s a lot easier to try to sweep our anger and frustration with God under the carpet. After all, we think, who are we to question God? We’ve been taught that it’s our job to praise and worship, to accept everything as “God’s will.” But when we do that, we walk away from the relationship God calls us to.
At a time when the specter of a pandemic hangs over us, when the depth of injustice to marginalized communities in the United States is witnessed again and again, it is our right and our call to enter into lament. To call God to account for God’s promises. To recognize that God is God, yes, but that we are God’s beloved people whom God calls into relationship. God can handle our anger, our grief, and our accusations. God wants all of us.
God, today also my complaint is bitter. Give heed to me. Amen.
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