The book of Lamentations focuses on suffering, loss, and hopelessness. Jeremiah wrote this book as he watched the continuous rebellion of God’s people despite many warnings through prophets. The purpose of this book is to teach people that to disobey God is to invite disaster and to show that God suffers when His people suffer. Jeremiah is sometimes referred to as “the weeping prophet” because his tears flowed from a broken heart for his nation who had rejected God.

This painting is vertical, showing the torment raining down on Jerusalem for sinning against God. I’ve illustrated that with dark dreary colors and blues, indicating the tears pouring out of Jeremiah’s broken heart. Yet, in the middle of all this, he remembers God’s mercy, which I have indicated with the bright yellow burst. God’s compassion is our ray of hope. The streaks flowing from the burst with the brighter color within are to show restoration beginning through God’s love. No matter what you’re going through today, be encouraged that God is patient, and His compassion and faithfulness is new every morning!