My God, My God, Oh Why?

A poetical rendering of Psalm 22

Editor’s Note:

P3’s Poet Laureate returns! James Shrimpton offers this poetical rendering of Psalm 22 as we prepare for Easter and the season of rebirth, redemption, and new beginnings. May you find comfort, peace, and reassurance in the dark days ahead with this psalm of David.

Enjoy,

- Frank Theodat

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

My God, my God, oh why
Have you forsaken me?
Why must I groan and cry
While evil men go free? 

You are holy, Lord, enthroned on praise
Our Fathers trusted you.
They cried unto their Lord always
And found your word was true. 

Yet I am but a worm
And not at all a man
They mock who see me squirm
“Let God help if he can”

Yet you are He who gave me life
You were my God from birth
I see the fast-approaching strife
No help I find on earth.

Like beasts who come to eat
My enemies surround
They pierce my hands and feet
They run me to the ground. 

But you O Lord be not far off
Come quickly to my aid.
Deliver me from those who scoff
And save me from the blade! 

Like water I’m poured out
My strength like broken clay
The evil ones all shout
That they have won the day 

But I will praise your glorious name
To all the hosts of God
Until the king his crown shall claim
O’er all who walk abroad. 

Yes, ends of earth shall know their Lord
Your conquest be complete.
They shall remember your great word
And worship at your feet!