I find it challenging that one of the most hopeful sentences in the Bible lies in the middle of a lament about destruction. With a city in ruins, a culture in shambles, and formerly free people shuffling off as slaves, the author set down this line:

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

The writer described the plight facing the people of Jerusalem using phrases like the rod of God’s wrath, skin wasting away, and darkness without light. I’m astounded that even in the thick of carnage someone could perceive the tender-heartedness of God.

I usually experience these words as a praise chorus, in a setting surrounded by like-minded seekers. I’m standing there fed, clothed, clean and unhurried. I’ve left my well-furnished home and driven to church in my comfortable car. It’s a crime if I fail to recognize the mercies of God surrounding me. Yet I take them for granted.

Caught in a nightmare like few of us will ever experience, Jeremiah (traditionally held as the author of Lamentations) unearthed the grace and compassion of God. I pray I might find the same within the brighter circumstances surrounding me.

Lamentations 3:22-23

Photo by Aaron Burden