Today's reading offers a final cry of desperation. The people are suffering greatly, virtually enslaved by the Babylonians, with little money, little food, and no freedom. In every way, the people understand their punishment and its cause -- how the actions of the people over generations made God angry and how the people need to return to God and God's ways. However, despite the great hope of the middle section of Lamentations (in chapter 3), there is anxiety that God's displeasure may be permanent. Somewhat sheepishly, at the lament's end, they ask God for restoration, but fear God's rejection.
[links to Bible Gateway open in a new window]
Reading the Bible in Its EntiretyIf you are planning to read the Bible in its entirety, you should read Lamentations 5 today.