The Silent Cry

"Unto thee will I cry, O Lord my rock; be not silent to me: lest, if thou be silent to me, I become like them that go down into the pit. Hear the voice of my supplications, when I cry unto thee, when I lift up my hands toward thy holy oracle."   
In the artwork, the figure's raised hands symbolize the deep longing for God to hear their voice. The "holy oracle" represents a connection with the divine, a plea for God to not turn away. The darkness in the background symbolizes the "pit"—the spiritual emptiness and despair the psalmist fears without God's presence. In life, many individuals experience moments of silence where they feel distant from God. This verse encourages believers to continue to cry out in faith, knowing that even when God seems silent, He is still their rock and refuge.  

The verse resonates with people facing moments of uncertainty or isolation, urging them to keep seeking God's presence even when it feels distant. It offers comfort to those waiting for God to respond to their deepest prayers.  

"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him."   
The radiant light surrounding the figure signifies the Lord's strength and shield, providing protection from the encroaching darkness. The joy in the figure's posture symbolizes the psalmist's rejoicing after their prayers are answered. This verse teaches that when believers place their trust in the Lord, they are helped and their hearts are filled with joy. In real life, many people turn to this psalm during moments of struggle, finding peace and strength in knowing that God is their protector. Once their prayers are answered, they respond with songs of gratitude and praise.  

In modern times, this verse offers encouragement to those who trust in God's protection amidst adversity. It reminds believers that even when they face overwhelming challenges, placing trust in the Lord brings relief and joy.  

"The Lord is their strength, and he is the saving strength of his anointed. Save thy people, and bless thine inheritance: feed them also, and lift them up for ever."   
This final portion of the artwork shows the light extending beyond the figure, reaching toward others, symbolizing the Lord's strength as a communal blessing. The psalmist’s prayer expands beyond personal salvation to include the welfare of all of God’s people. The light in the artwork, extending to distant figures, signifies the Lord's blessings and protection over His people as a whole.  

In real life, this verse reflects the understanding that God's blessings and strength are not just for individuals but for all His people. It speaks of God's commitment to protect, feed, and uplift His inheritance—His people. It serves as a reminder that believers are part of a larger community that is supported and strengthened by God's saving power.  

Psalm 28 captures the human experience of feeling distant from God and the deep yearning for His presence and protection. The figure in  "The Silent Cry" represents anyone who has ever felt lost in the darkness, reaching for divine intervention. In today’s fast-paced and often chaotic world, many people find themselves crying out to God during moments of despair. This psalm serves as a reminder that even in times of silence, God remains our rock and shield. It reassures believers that God hears their cries and responds with strength, help, and joy. The psalm also extends beyond individual struggles, calling on God to bless and protect the larger community of believers.  

This psalm is often shared in online faith communities where people seek encouragement during difficult times. It brings comfort to those struggling with feelings of abandonment or spiritual silence, reminding them to trust that God hears their prayers and will respond with protection and strength.