Psalm 126:1-6 “A Song of Ascents. When the LORD brought back those who returned to Zion, we were like those who dream. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing. Then they said amongst the nations, ‘The LORD has done great things for them.’ The LORD has done great things for us, and we are glad. Restore our fortunes again, LORD, like the streams in the Negev. Those who sow in tears will reap in joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed for sowing, will certainly come again with joy, carrying his sheaves.”

The Jewish people went into captivity for 70 years. Many were killed when Jerusalem was ransacked. Some went into captivity and never saw their land again. Some were born in captivity and never came home. Some were born in captivity and got to be a part of the return. The people who were able to return were thankful and rejoiced, and even the surrounding nations had to acknowledge what God had done! Those currently worshipping rejoiced as well, and recognized that God can turn bad into good for His people.

We too should note that sadness and discouragement only last for a season. But what if that season lasts a long time? The perspective here is both communal and eternal. Our lives are better when we recognize that joy for one should be joy for all. And we also note that God kept His promises, even if many didn’t live to see it happen. Some of our weeping may not turn to laugher in this life, but the promise is that one day it will. And we should experience peace and joy because of that.

Romans 8:18 “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which will be revealed towards us.”

For additional worship: Sheaves