Challenge: Write a Psalm
Last year about this time, I attended a class on the Psalms at a local Methodist Church. A poet friend, Janet, co-facilitated the class. After the session on Lamentations, she suggested that we each go home and write our own lament.
I don’t normally write verse in the style of the Psalms, but for this I made a brief study and modeled my lament after versions in the Bible. First the complaint, then a section praising God, and then the request: Please fix this! I wrote from my heart and edited very little. Class members gave positive feedback and the pastor requested a copy to use in the Blue Christmas service that year.
Surprises
Two weeks ago, at lunch with new friend Kitty, I surprised myself by reading this poem and agreeing that she could share it with prayer partners. Soon one of those partners, Janie from Granbury, Texas, called. Concerned about the polarization in our country, Janie reported that reading this poem as a prayer helped her stay calm and centered. She asked for copies to share with more people. They are liking it too.
Serendipity
In the midst of that pleasant ripple, my web designer asked if I was ready to launch my new site after being on hold for a year. Timing is everything! In this flow of positive energy, I said, “Yes.”
So this is my first new post on this version of my website.
A Modern Psalm
My lament starts with, “Oh Lord, I am asking for answers for the highest good of all!” and includes,
“God help these people
To be willing to see things differently and
To come into One Accord.”
And there is much more. I hope it is useful, inspiring, or calming. Regardless of your political leanings, it is timely. It fits for all sorts of divisive situations.
Get Your Copy
Click on the link below, share your name and email address, and you’ll receive an email with a printable PDF of the poem. You may unsubscribe at any time. I will not bombard you with emails!
While I would of course love for you to buy my book, Nurture Yourself First, through Balboa Press, Amazon or major booksellers, I am not regularly pitching anything in particular.
I’m Loving This
I’ll email with links to additional posts occasionally, then perhaps every two weeks. Mostly I’ll be celebrating whatever I am loving now! I look forward to sharing a bit more with you!