Why Psalm 88 is Luminous for Being Affirmative of Hopelessness

Sometimes, when you seek, you do not find. And that is all right.

Photo by Fujiphilm on Unsplash

‘Rejoice in the Lord always’-that is how one of my mother’s favourite hymns begins. Meant as instruction, it’s a line that can quickly feel grating. Just pick yourself up, cast aside your gloom and be thankful. You’re a believer-believe! And so, a recommendation becomes an admonition. Because, if you are with God, how can you despair?

I was brought up with this mantra, which, though slightly overbearing, hides a kernel of truth. After all, isn’t this what mindfulness is all about-seeing the bigger picture by appreciating the small joys? ‘Jot down five things each day that make you happy and do this for a month-you’ll find your mood boosted’. The gist of many magazines and books expounding on self-care and wellbeing comes to mind. Certainly not bad advice if you can get yourself in that frame of mind.

The problem, however, is if you can’t make that switch.

Sometimes, the heartbreak is too intense. The disappointment, the resentment. Anger. Jealousy. Consternation. Fear. Stuck in a whirlpool of emotions, thoughts paralyzed, it’s easier to feel helpless and lost. That’s when the ‘Christian’ answer to the problem-to pray on it-all of a sudden becomes…