Dr. Tan Tek Seng

DAILY REFLECTION
11 Aug 2026

“Joy is gone from our hearts; our dancing has turned to mourning.” Lamentations 5:15

In 2014, I had the privilege of co-chairing an International Marriage Renewal Vow celebration in Sanya, Hainan, together with Professor Dr. Zhao. Nearly 100 couples from China, Southeast Asia, and the United States were expected to participate, with about 800 guests confirming their attendance. Many arrived several days early, filled with excitement and anticipation.

Then, just one day before the event, we were suddenly instructed by the authorities to stop all activities. Months of preparation, prayer, and anticipation came to an abrupt halt. Our guests had to return home. Those of us who remained toured Sanya in silence and disappointment. Local and international Christian leaders were closely monitored, and gatherings in restaurants and hotels were prohibited.

What was meant to be a joyful celebration suddenly became a season of sorrow. The words of Lamentations 5:15 came alive: “Joy is gone from our hearts; our dancing has turned to mourning.”

The people of Jerusalem understood what it meant for joy to disappear. Their city had fallen, their lives had been shattered, and celebration had been replaced by grief. Yet Lamentations teaches us an important truth: faith does not require us to deny our disappointment; it teaches us where to take it.

There will be moments when carefully made plans collapse, doors unexpectedly close, prayers seem unanswered, and celebration turns into sorrow. Disappointment does not necessarily mean that our faith is weak or that God has abandoned us.

Biblical lament gives us permission to come honestly before God. We can bring Him our tears, questions, confusion, and broken dreams. God is not threatened by our sorrow; He meets us in it.

When our plans are interrupted, God’s purposes are not. What appears to be an ending may still become part of His greater story.

“When the dancing stops, keep trusting God—the music of His grace has not ended.”