The sections of this lament could be used separately, depending on the context of a particular local need, or together, in the context of the suffering around the world. Deforestation is brought about by humans, and drought and flood have been seen as “natural” disasters. But climate change is accelerated by deforestation, and drought and flood are expected to become more frequent and more severe in many parts of the world as a result. See Global Carbon Project for more information.
Bibical references: Isaiah 44.3, John 4, Revelation 21, Psalm 62, 69, Isaiah 55
Drought turns farmland to dustbowl,
drains rivers, lays bare the soil.
Gardens wither,
livestock die,
people lose heart, communities crumble.
How long, O Lord, how long?
Refresh the parched and thirsty earth.
Revive our flagging spirits.
When will you give us the water of life?
Deforestation shreds the landscape,
leaches soil, poisons rivers.
Smoke hangs in the air,
rainfall patterns change,
birds and animals lose their habitat,
cultures and people die.
How long, O Lord, how long?
Rebuke the greed for land.
Regenerate the stricken forests.
When will the trees clap their hands at your salvation?
Floods wash away soil, flatten crops, ruin homes.
Drinking water fails,
disease spreads, fear clings,
livelihoods lie buried in mud,
animals and people drown.
How long, O Lord, how long?
Restore the soaked and tattered land.
Relieve the suffering people.
Are you not our strong rock and refuge?
© The Anglican Church of Australia
This text may be reproduced for use in worship in the Anglican Church of Australia