Finding Rest In Christ's Lament

Scripture Readings:
Psalm 27 – Trusting in God's presence and protection.
Psalm 118:26-29 – Giving thanks for God's steadfast love.
Matthew 23:37-39 – Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem.

Today’s scriptures remind us of God’s unwavering love and the tragedy of rejecting God’s grace.

In Psalm 27, we hear a declaration of trust: “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” (v. 1). This psalm expresses a deep longing to dwell in God’s presence and seek shelter in God when troubles arise. Even when enemies surround us, the psalmist remains confident that God’s goodness will prevail.

Psalm 118 continues this theme with a song of thanksgiving: “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!” (v. 26). The Gospels later echo these words as Jesus enters Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. The psalm calls us to give thanks for God’s unchanging love, even when we do not fully understand God’s ways.

In Matthew 23, we hear Jesus’ deep sorrow as He weeps over Jerusalem:
"How often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing." (v. 37)

Jesus longs to bring His people close, to protect them like a mother bird shelters her young. But instead of receiving His love, they turn away. This moment is both heartbreaking and familiar. How often do we resist God’s call, choosing our own way instead of seeking refuge in Him?
When we examine our hearts, do we draw near to God, like the psalmist? Or do we reject Christ’s grace, turning away like Jerusalem?

The good news is that God's love remains steadfast. Even when we falter, He calls us back. Jesus' lament is not just sorrow—it is also an invitation. He still longs to gather us under God’s wings, offering us the shelter of mercy and the hope of new life.
​
Resting in God’s grace requires discipline.  Here are some Lenten practices that will help:
Seek God’s Presence – Set aside time each day to pray and dwell in God’s love.
Turn from Resistance to Surrender – Ask yourself: where am I resisting God’s call?
Live in Gratitude – Give thanks for God's never-ending love, even in difficult seasons.

Prayer:Loving God, You are my light and my salvation. Forgive me when I turn away from You. Draw me close and shelter me under Your wings. Teach me to trust in Your love, to rest in Your presence, and to walk in the way of Jesus. May I always give thanks for Your steadfast mercy. Amen.
Reflection Question: In what areas of your life do you need to stop resisting and allow God to gather you under His loving care?