The events of the last week have been shocking and disturbing. Images of what is occurring in Minneapolis continue to pour in through news outlets and social media. Watching protestors face off with federal agents, knowing that some have been killed and others physically harmed, can cause all sorts of emotions to rise within us. We might feel upset, angry, frustrated, sad, hopeless, and depressed.
In times like this, some Christians will turn to scriptures that remind us that God is our refuge (Psalm 41) or that we should not fear, for God is with us (Isaiah 41:10). Personally, I do not find these scriptures comforting in times of distress because they give little voice to what I am feeling.
In times of uncertainty, turmoil, and injustice, I prefer to read the psalms of lament. Psalms like Psalm 6, which says “Be gracious to me, O Lord, for I am languishing; O Lord, heal me, for my bones are shaking with terror. My soul also is struck with terror while you, O Lord—how long?” The fact that the psalmist seems to be so overwhelmed that they cannot even complete a sentence often reflects my emotions.
Several times in my life, I have found comfort in Psalm 13, which reads: “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I bear pain in my soul, and have sorrow in my heart all day long? How long shall my enemy be exalted over me?” This psalm has always felt true when it appears that God is nowhere to be seen. When hope is lost, sorrow reigns in my heart, and when the enemies of justice seem to be winning.
Other psalms of lament include Psalm 22 which Jesus quotes on the cross, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” as well as Psalm 42, 43, 44, 74, 79, 80, 88. If the Psalms don’t speak to how you are feeling in this moment, you might consider reading the book of Lamentations in the Hebrew Bible. It was written after the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BCE, as the Judeans were taken into exile by the Babylonians. It speaks to the hopelessness one may feel amid destruction.
When the events that cause us to lament happen far from us, it can be difficult to know what to do. I find it helpful in times like these to remember that we don’t need to help the whole world to make a difference. We can make an impact right here in our community. If you are looking for some ways to help in this moment, consider these opportunities:
Sign up to join Faith Action Network for their Interfaith Advocacy Day in Olympia, WA. Join others on February 12, 2026, to advocate for legislation that cares for the needs of people right here in Washington.
Auburn First’s “little food pantry” is being used quite regularly by families and individuals in need. Spend a few extra minutes purchasing canned meats, soups, spaghetti, pasta sauce, and cereal for the pantry.
Monday Night Suppers, our community meal, is seeing an increase in the number of people it serves. Many of those in attendance need winter hats, gloves, and socks. Consider purchasing some of these items and bring them to church on Sunday morning.
Reach out to your neighbor and check in on them.
Call a friend who is struggling.
As you lament and cry out to God, I encourage you find ways to love your neighbor. Whether you decide to mobilize to protest here in Washington, advocate for your neighbors in Olympia, or provide food and clothing for those in need, know that you are doing enough. God does not ask us to solve the world’s problems, but rather to do the next right thing to love our neighbors.
May God’s peace be with you all.