Healing the Wounds of Trauma

take action to bring justice rather than taking action themselves or cursing the enemy (Ps 28.3–4). Laments are well known in many ethnic groups. They are a good way to express deep emotions. ❂❂ EXERCISE 1. Have everyone close their books, read Psalm13 in their Bibles, and identify the parts of this lament. When they have fin- ished, read the Psalm aloud in the large group and have the participants say aloud what part each verse is.

vs. 1–2: How much longer will you forget me, Lord? Forever? How much longer will you hide yourself from me? How long must I endure trouble? How long will sorrow fill my heart day and night? How long will my enemies triumph over me? vs. 3–4: Look at me, O Lord my God, and answer me. Restore my strength; don’t let me die. Don’t let my enemies say, “We have defeated him.” Don’t let them gloat over my downfall.

Address and com- plaint

Request

vs. 5a: I rely on your constant love;

Statement of trust in God

vs. 5b–6: I will be glad, because you will rescue me. I will sing to you, O Lord, because you have been good to me.

Vow to praise

2. Take thirtyminutes of quiet time for each person to compose a lament about their own painful experience. They should do this in their own language. It may be a written lament, a song, or a song and dance. Or have them work together in groups to compose a community lament. Share the laments in small groups and/or in the large group.

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What Happens When Someone Is Grieving?