A Meditation for Good Friday
Lament and Love
By The Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin S. Holcomb
In the depths of despair, when darkness seems to envelop us and hope feels like a distant memory, God break through with promises of hope and comfort. In the book of Lamentations and the Gospel of John, we find passages that speak to the human experience of suffering, doubt, and sin, and the enduring presence of God's mercy and love.
The book of Lamentations is a haunting depiction of grief and despair. In the midst of profound suffering, the prophet Jeremiah pours out his heart to God, wrestling with the pain of loss and devastation. In Lamentations 3, we encounter a vivid portrayal of anguish and lament.
In Lamentations 3:1-9, the author paints a vivid picture of anguish and despair. Jeremiah begins by acknowledging the bitterness of his affliction. He speaks of being "the man who has seen affliction" and describes himself as one who walks in darkness and in the shadow of death. His soul is weary, and he feels trapped by sorrow and suffering.
"I am one who has seen affliction under the rod of God's wrath; he has driven and brought me into darkness without any light; against me alone he turns his hand, again and again, all day long.”
These words resonate with the raw emotions of someone who feels abandoned and overwhelmed by suffering. The imagery of walking in darkness, feeling the weight of God's hand against them, captures the depths of despair that many of us can relate to in our own lives.
Yet, even in the midst of such anguish, there is hope. In Lamentations 3:19-33, the tone shifts as the author reflects on the faithfulness and compassion of the Lord: "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end." Despite the devastation surrounding him, Jeremiah clings to the unwavering love and compassion of God.
Like him, we may find ourselves overwhelmed by the weight of our circumstances. We may feel as though we are walking in darkness, with no end in sight. Yet, even in our darkest moments, we can take comfort in the unchanging love of God. His mercies are new every morning, and his faithfulness is our anchor in the storm.
As we journey through the season of Lent, may we follow Jeremiah's example of trust and hope. May we turn to God in our moments of despair, knowing that his love never fails and his mercies never come to an end.
May we find solace in the assurance that God's faithfulness endures forever. This passage reminds us that even in our darkest moments, God's love and mercy are ever-present. His compassion is renewed with each passing day.
In John 13:36-38, we encounter another expression of human frailty and doubt. It is a narrative of love and loyalty, betrayal and denial.
As Jesus prepares to face the cross, he shares a final meal with his disciples, demonstrating the depth of his love for them. Yet, even as he lavishes them with love, he foretells of the challenges that lie ahead. As Jesus tells his disciples about his impending betrayal and crucifixion, Peter, ever impulsive and passionate, boldly declares his loyalty and allegiance to Jesus.
Peter’s bold declaration is met with Jesus' prophetic words:
"Will you really lay down your life for me? Very truly I tell you, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times!"
Peter's response is one of stubborn resolve. "Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you!" he insists. But Jesus sees beyond Peter's bravado, knowing that his loyalty will be tested in the crucible of suffering.
Peter's confident assertion crumbles in the face of fear, threat, and uncertainty. As the events unfold, we witness Peter's denial—a denial born out of fear and weakness. Despite his sincere intentions, he disowns his beloved teacher and friend three times, succumbing to the pressure of the moment.
Yet, even in Peter's failure, we see the redemptive power of God's grace. There is hope. In his infinite grace and mercy, Jesus restores and commissions Peter. After Jesus' resurrection, he appears to Peter by the Sea of Galilee, reinstating him with love and forgiveness. Despite Peter's betrayal, Jesus entrusts him with the crucial task of shepherding his flock, demonstrating the transformative power of God's mercy.
In Peter's denial, we see our own frailty and fallibility. Like him, we may falter in our faith, succumbing to doubt and fear in the face of adversity. Yet, even in our moments of weakness and sin, Jesus extends his hand of forgiveness and restoration. His love is greater than our failures, and his grace is sufficient to cover our sins.
As we reflect on the story of Peter's denial, may we humbly acknowledge our own sins, trusting in the unfailing love and grace of our Savior. And we, like Peter, will find redemption and restoration in the arms of our loving God.
In these passages, we are reminded of the intertwined themes of lament and love. In the midst of our sorrow and suffering, we cling to the steadfast love of God, knowing that his mercies are new every morning. And in our moments of sin and failure, we find comfort in the boundless love and grace of Jesus Christ, who offers us redemption and restoration.
As we journey through Lent, may we trust in God’s faithfulness and cling to the promise of his unfailing love.
The Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin S. Holcomb is a bishop, professor, and author. He has written or edited twenty-two books on abuse, theology, and biblical studies. Justin is the bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida, where he has served as the canon for vocations since 2013. The readings for the preceding devotional may be located here from Forward Movement.
