Reading for December 7th

Read Lamentations 3.25-51. In 25-41: A teaching on God's goodness I an jarring shift, this section at the center of the book offers beautiful statements of God's mercy faithfulness, and compassion (vv. 22-23) and teaches silence in the face of suffering. Because some passages appear to contradict material that comes before and after ( v. 39; why should anyone complain?), these verses are often considered a later addition to the book. They function, however, to balance the community's expression of suffering with the book's insistent theme that God is justifiably punishing Judah for its sins. In verse 40-41: because God acted justly, Judah must examine its own wrongs. In verses 42-51: A communal lament. While beginning with recognition of gult, the section also complains that God has refused to forgove (vv. 42, 44). Further complaints follow. The shame of defeat and enemy taunts, mentioned earlier in the book, is repeated. In verse 48: While the speaker shifts to "I" the theme remains the fate of the city. Comments or Questions..