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How do we approach God when we are suffering injustice, loss or pain? This book is about the practice of lament, 'how we bring our sorrow to God'. Vroegop, a pastor, learnt to lament through facing personal tragedy, as he explains in the first chapter. By studying biblical laments, he identifies four key components: an address to God, a complaint, a request and an expression of trust and/or praise.

Ultimately, lament leads us to mercy by remembering God's character and faithfulness. Vroegop explains what it means to lament by drawing on the psalms (many of which are laments) and the book of Lamentations. When I've been struggling to understand what God's doing in my life, learning how to cry out to God through lament has helped me to continue my relationship with Him. I also found it useful that Vroegop points out that Jesus understands our suffering; indeed, Jesus 'lived a life of lament', expressing great sorrow in response to injustice and human frailty.

This book would be really helpful to anyone experiencing suffering, supporting someone who is struggling, or in church leadership. As well as a theological exploration of lament, there are also some practical suggestions. The penultimate chapter discusses how lament can speak into different personal circumstances, such as confessing our sins and grieving. The final chapter offers some thoughts on corporate lament, including its value in congregational prayers, preaching and singing. 

Luke Fisher