How Long, O Lord?

*This simple lament – is in an unusual time signature. It was written in response to the harrowing stories of two young men who traveled for years as minors, enduring great risk and hardship. They reached their destination but were marked and traumatised by their experiences on the way. The lyric suggests that unspeakable, unbearable things have been experienced – some of which may never be brought to light or to language. It is because of stories and experiences such as these, that churches must hold on to the language of lament in their worship.

How long O Lord – will you forget us?
How long O Lord – until you save us?

I had to leave – I had to go
My dreams were of another shore
If I had known how this would be
The longest road the cruelest sea…

How long O Lord – will you forget us?
How long O Lord – until you save us?

If you had seen what I have seen…
If you had been where I have been…
There is so much I cannot say…
Someone somewhere should have to pay!

How long O Lord – will you forget us?
How long O Lord – until you save us?

We want to live! We want to be!
We want to find a place of peace…

How long O Lord – will you forget us?
How long O Lord – until you save us?
How long? How long? How long? How long?
How long…

© Doug Gay 2019 – Creative Commons