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A cry for help: Psalm 88 (Day 277)

Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.

Pray

Pray

Lord, open my ears to hear what you have to say to me; open my heart to love your word, and open my mind to understand your truth.

Reflect

Daily reflection: Psalm 88

This psalm is another individual lament. It is particularly significant as it is right in the centre of the book of Psalms and it is the only lament which is without any hope – it’s as if the psalmists want to bring us to our lowest point before the psalms start to turn a corner and become more hope-filled in the second half of the book.

This lack of hope and praise is a striking thing in itself. It honestly expresses that sometimes we are at rock bottom and feel like God has abandoned us. Acknowledging that this is the reality for most of us at some point in our lives – and for some a regular struggle – helps remove the stigma. This psalm ends with the painful sigh that ‘darkness is my only companion’. Unlike other laments, it never gets to the point of praising God.

However, the whole psalm is an honest dialogue with God – and the faith of the psalmist in continuing to petition God is a really significant example to us. Sometimes if people can’t put on a happy face or ‘fake it’ they may be accused of lacking faith – but that’s not true and this psalm shows it. The honesty in this psalm is a huge encouragement because of this.

The psalm also challenges us to be better friends to others, and to stand by them through the pain.

Pray

Pray

Heavenly Father, even when we do not feel it, you are with us. Please reveal yourself to us today. Amen


This reflection was written by Katy Dorrer, Catholic Scripture Engagement Officer at Bible Society

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