The book of Ruth opens in tragedy. Naomi’s husband dies and then her two sons. The grief she was carrying would have been overwhelming. Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth head back to Bethlehem. It was about a 7-10 day journey. The Bible makes it clear that Naomi was NOT the life of the party, her heart was broken and she was bitter. On her arrival into Bethlehem, she announces to the whole city. “Do not call me Naomi, call me Mara (bitter). For the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me.” Her lament continues on for another verse.
I love that no one criticises Naomi for her outburst. Not the narrator, not Ruth (who had probably been listening to her for the past week), not the women in Bethlehem and not even God. No one gave her advice, quoted scripture to her, gave a word of encouragement or even prayed for her. They listened!!!
The church has not been great at hearing laments from broken people. It’s awkward, messy, and can sound critical. We like to “keep it positive and happy.”
But listening to a lament is a powerful way of loving someone who is suffering. In fact, if a broken heart doesn’t lament, it can lead to unbelief. God loves a broken, open and honest heart, that’s how healing begins. He invites us as we are, all messed up, and snot running down our faces. I believe one of the most missional acts we can do is listen to the laments of broken people in our city and embrace people where they are at.