My God, My God, Why Have You Abandoned Me?

Ramseyb - March 24, 2024

My God, My God, Why Have You Abandoned Me?

Psalm 22, Jesus’ last cry of abandonment, is today’s response. This lament is spoken 13 times in the New Testament and 9 times alone in the Passion story. The psalmist is not complaining, shows no bitterness, makes no allusion to sin, does not declare personal innocence, and makes no defense against unjust charges. Although this psalm is one of lament, abandonment, and anguish, it is bursting with steadfast trust in God. Through the feelings of suffering and utter abandonment, the faithful one continues to love and be hopeful: “I will tell of your name to my kinsfolk and praise you in the assembly. The psalm concludes with hope and trust in God’s providence.

All who see me jeer at me, sneer at me, shaking their heads:
“You relied on God; let God help you!
If God loves you, let God save you!”

There are dogs all around me, a pack of villains corners me.
They tear at my hands and feet,
I can count all my bones. They stare at me and gloat.

They take what I wore, they roll dice for my clothes.
God, do not stay far off, you, my strength, be quick to help.

I will proclaim your name to my people,
I will praise you in the assembly.
Give praise, all who fear God:
revere and honor God, children of Israel, people of Jacob.