A Psalm of Lament for a Parent Estranged

In the pattern of Psalm 13

How long O Lord, counted nights turned into years?

The face hidden,

The name not mentioned,

Even tainted joys forgotten.

How long will I sink beneath the waves,

Regretting what was,

Fearing what might be?

Hear me, help me, hold me,

Or I will sink beneath the grief.

The enemy says,

“I’ve won.

God’s lost.

And it’s what you deserve.”

Is this the last word?

I trust that You love

The sorrow filled one

Who with anguish unceasing implores,

“Would that I be cut off

so that mine could be restored!”

Here I bow, stumbling to my knees.

I will worship while I wait.

I will worship while I weep.

Come quickly,

But please not before you save.