Lamentations 3:21-23
Stop.
Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Repeat the words, “Great is your faithfulness”. Breathe in and out, repeating these words for as long as you need.
Listen.
But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. – Lamentations 3:21-23
Reflect.
We don’t often read from the book of Lamentations. As the title would suggest, the book is indeed full of lament. It gives voice to pain, frustration, and loss, much like other wisdom literature (Psalms and Proverbs, for instance) does. While it can be hard to hear, it does give voice to these emotions and claims them for God. The fullness of human experience finds a place in scripture.
It can be surprising to hear how these verses have found a place in our tradition. For instance, even though we don’t hear from Lamentations much, you might recognize that these verses sound familiar. These lines provide the basis for the hymn “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” (ELW 733), a hymn of great power and faith sung for many generations in our churches. From a place of loss and pain come words of hope and confidence.
When we endure loss, change, confusion, and frustration, it can be easy to wonder, “Why would God do this to us?” But instead, this passage invites us to say: in the face of all that I cannot control, God, your faithfulness is great. Just as on Tuesday we talked about how God does not change, Lamentations invites us to trust in God’s faithfulness, especially through difficult times.
We can rely on our God. When things feel heavy and overwhelming, our God remains faithful.
Pray.
Great is your faithfulness, God. I rejoice in all the ways that you show me your love, care, and guidance. As I share all my griefs and sorrows with you, I ask that you would send your peace as you always do. Amen.
Carry On.
“Great Is Thy Faithfulness” is just one hymn that quotes scripture. What about about your favorite song? Look up the lyrics to your favorite music that we sing in worship. Can you find what Bible passages it might reference?