This is part of a poem of grief at the destruction of Jerusalem. We see in the Old Testament God’s people turning away and facing punishment time after time, despite the warnings God sent through prophets. The poem speaks of the anger of the Lord and the broken relationship. Still this poet urges them to send pleas for mercy to God.
We, too, witness destruction in wars, famine and failure to address climate change. We have failed to heed warnings about our actions or lack of them. As I write, we are facing a trade war with our closest neighbour and ally. Many despair at the difficulties this may bring, especially to those already in poverty in both countries. We need God’s encouragement to pray, to act, and to trust that God will restore us.
Lord, we pour out our hearts in your presence. We ask you to give us courage to act in repairing our relations within our nation, with other nations, and with the earth. We ask that we may show your love in the world and pray for healing. Amen. —