Lament: A Definition and Example

In his faithful memior/treatment of the subject of lament, professor J. Todd Billings defines the practice of lament through his own experience of receiving a diagnosis of Multiple Myloma:

Lament. The English word has some ambiguity, particularly as it relates to the laments in Scripture. It can mean grieving and mourning, such as those weeping for a lost loved one at a funeral; or it can mean protest, a form of petition—seeking to take God to “court” to make one’s case. Both senses of “lament” are important in the Bible, and although they differ, there is also a continuum between the two.

Writers of laments and complaints in the Psalms often seek to make their “case” against God, frequently citing God’s promises in order to complain that God seems to be forgetting his promises. They throw the promises of God back at him.

I say to God, my rock,
“Why have you forgotten me?
Why must I walk about mournfully
because the enemy oppresses me?”
As with a deadly wound in my body,
my adversaries taunt me,
while they say to me continually,
“Where is your God?” (Ps. 42:9–10)

God is the rock and refuge to his people, the One who always remembers Israel. Based on this promise, the psalmist thrusts the promise back to God in protest: “Why have you forgotten me?” Why does God allow the psalmist’s enemies to mock God’s promises, tauntingly saying, “Where is your God?”

When I shared the news of my cancer diagnosis, the response of my friends and family was varied. Sometimes it was lament, in the sense of mourning and grieving. There were many tears. Sometimes those responding quickly moved to remind me of God’s promises and of their commitment to pray for me and my family. And, less often, there were responses in the mode of protest-lament, as in this note from a friend (used with permission).

Thanks so much for taking the time to talk tonight. . . .

I wanted to apologize because what I wanted to say didn’t manage to come out. It’s beautiful just how much better the little girl from your church was able to articulate it. God is bigger than cancer. It’s true. And also, perhaps less faithfully . . . I hate this for you more than anything. I hate this for your family. I want you to beat the heck out of it. Forgive us all for the stupid things we say and don’t say. I am praying tonight for you and Rachel.