07/08/2026
In times of deep sorrow and anguish, we can feel isolated and alone, cut off from each other and even from God. Our emotions churn and convulse within us as we try to make sense of a world turned upside down by tragedy and loss. We wrestle with questions for which there seem to be no answers, and we find ourselves crying out repeatedly, “Why… Why… Why?”
It is in these dark moments, however, that God meets us. Scripture reminds us in Psalm 34:18 that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” God, our loving Father, holds us close in our pain and grief, inviting us to bring every tear, every burden, every question, every complaint, and every bit of our sorrow to Him.
This is the Christian practice known as lament. We turn to God in our pain, processing our struggles and suffering with God rather than enduring in silence or resignation. Lament gives voice to our pain, our questions, and even our anger, while also remembering God’s love, His promises, and ultimately His character.
God isn’t afraid of your feelings. God isn’t afraid of your questions. God isn’t afraid of your anger. In fact, He invites you to bring all of your emotions to Him because He cares for you. He formed you, intricately weaving you together, unique from all other people who have ever lived. He calls you by name and has a purpose for your life. He knows your pain, sees your tears, and understands your suffering.
“As a mother comforts her children,” the Lord says, “so I will comfort you.”
“Come to Me,” Jesus says, “and I will give you rest.”
This week in worship, we will do just that: come together in lament for all that has happened in our community. We will be honest before God, knowing that even now He holds us in His hands and gives us hope and peace.
And pray for the Funk family as they grapple with this unimaginable loss. May the Spirit of peace surround them and all who know them.
Jesus Calms the Storm (Hymn for Anxious Little Hearts) - The Getty ...
