Image by K. Mitch Hodge, via Unsplash
Throughout our lives, we experience a variety of ups and downs. We are blessed with moments that make us feel like we are on a mountaintop, and we go through trials that bring us low. Generally, we are pretty good about expressing our thanks and our joys, but we don’t always know how to handle our difficult times. In light of the troubles in today’s world, and knowing that many people are carrying burdens in their own lives, I wanted to offer a short, portable service of lament that you can use anywhere you are. Feel free to adapt this service to meet your needs. If you use this service and it is meaningful to you, I would love to hear about your experience with it.
A Portable Service of Lament
Find a quiet place, and take one small action to designate this moment as a time of prayer and lament. Your small action could be lighting a candle, taking three deep and slow breaths in and out, or even opening the curtains/blinds as an act of inviting in the light of God. Or, you can choose another action that’s meaningful to you to begin your time.
Read out loud (or in silence): Jesus says, “‘Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29)
Lord, my heart is heavy today. I am worried about _____________________________.
Help me to lay these burdens at your feet. In 1 Peter 5:7, you invite us to bring to you what troubles us: “Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.” Receive our worries and cares today, and comfort us with your loving care.
Lord, my heart is hurting today. I bring before you my concerns for _____________________________________.
You promise us that a day will come when “[God] will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:4) My heart aches and my spirit groans as I think about the brokenness and hurt in this world: <list any hurts in your own life, the lives of loved ones, and/or in this world>.
Sing a short/simple song to God that you know by heart. Some examples: Kum Ba Yah, Jesus Loves Me, Amazing Grace.
Pause for a time of prayer. Your prayer may be a time of silence and allowing your heartaches to be heard by God. You may pray out loud or silently. When you are finished, conclude with the Lord’s Prayer.
Thank you, Lord, for meeting me in this sacred place. Carry my burdens with me, and remind me that I am not alone. In Jesus’s holy name, and in the comforting power of the Holy Spirit, Amen.