Exploring the Power of Lament in Worship

While sitting in a class at the theological seminary he attended, Michael Huston was floored when he heard his teacher say these words: “Lament is faithfully complaining to God.” The teacher went on to say, “Lament is the way you worship to God from within pain.” Huston describes the feeling he felt that day as exhaling a breath he had been holding for a very long time. On this week’s episode, he explains why he hopes to help others find that same relief in the concept of lament.

1:51- What is Lament and Why the Interest? 9:26- Structure of Lament 12:47- Murmuring or Complaining Vs. Lament 15:17- The Necessity of Expressing Pain and Grief 18:25- Men Are That They Might Have Joy 22:12- Post 9/11—A Modern Example of Lament 27:29- The Importance of Allowing Yourself to Lament 31:05- Lament—A Sacred Offering 37:08- A Note on Lament and “Faith Crisis” 39:52- A God For All Seasons 42:06- What Does It Mean To Be All In the Gospel of Jesus Christ?

“Lament, in a sense, is the most sacred of offerings. …It’s those moments when we are most vulnerable, most exposed, most uncertain, when our legs are the shakiest. We’re taking that and we’re saying, ‘God this is all I have left.’” —Michael Huston

Links & References:

Michael’s book

Elder Maxwell’s talk about murmuring

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