April 11, 1998

Lamentations 3: 37-58

Deliver Us!

Mary, the mother of Jesus stood at the foot of the cross yesterday and silently wept for her son. Today, the day following his crucifixion, she ponders his shameful death. What had gone wrong? What happened to the beloved infant? Gabriel's words to her years earlier, "You have found favor with God," numbed her.

We don't know Mary's song of lamentation, but we can imagine that it was as painfully eloquent as the Magnificat has been eloquently joyful. Mary's grief was real. Her heart was filled to bursting as she mourned the death of her son. She could not possibly anticipate the following day -- Easter. What a difference a few hours would make!

It is not uncommon to experience periods of sadness. It is all right to grieve. God listens intently to our lamentations -- our songs of sorrow and hopelessness. As with Mary, he will deliver us from our times of trial. The day will dawn when our burdens will be lifted and we will have peace on our hearts.

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Prayer: Holy and gracious Father, Listen to us please. Hear our lamentations. Understand our sufferings. Comfort us in our disappointments and grief. Help us remember the words of the Psalmist, "When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and rescues them from all their troubles." Give us patience and peace as we await your rescue. Amen. [Yesterday |Lenten Index | Tomorrow]