“How shall we sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land? If I forget you, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget its skill! Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth, if I do not remember you, if I do not set Jerusalem above my highest joy!” (Psalm 137:4-6, ESV)

The sufferings of the oppressed are not unfamiliar to the writers of Scripture.  This psalm of lament numbers itself amongst the most difficult in the entire Bible.  The writer is angry, hurt, tormented, shamed, and longing to just go home.  There is nothing polite about this poem.

Christianity in our culture is passed off as a “sure-fire” means to a carefree life.  “Give your money, keep your nose clean, be nice and God will bless you with health, wealth and (if you really want it) wisdom.”  When the pseudo-promise is not fulfilled, Christians tend to cluck their tongues, wag their heads sadly and give the agonized a pat on the back, “You’ll understand it by and by,” or “God does everything for a reason.”

In those rare instances where someone is actually honest enough to expose their fury regarding a present situation, shock and withdrawal is the most common response.  We prefer everyone to keep to themselves if at all possible. If you must, tell me of your pain, but please don’t share it.

The call of Christ is to life, abundant life [click].  I believe beyond a shadow of doubt Jesus knew that real living would include intense pleasures and visceral groans.  He experienced both and he invites all who will to come and follow him.