Throughout my lifetime, God has mercifully and graciously brought me out of negative situations and self-centered emotions by translating me [moving my perspective from the natural to the spiritual realm] into faith-building situations and into the joy of my salvation. Basically, God lifts me up so I can see. I imagine the Lord has done the same for you, because he is no respecter of persons.
As we move forward in peace toward this third Sunday of Advent, it only makes sense we should focus on how God stabilizes us and moves us from fear to faith, darkness to hope, brokenness to peace, and sorrow to joy. The Spirit reminds me the world is cursed and we were never promised a trouble-free life. The believer’s journey with God is about him meeting us in the present and helping us to yield to where he wants to take us in the future.
In our passage today, the psalmist portrays this same movement with God and Israel. God is faithful to his people and the world notices. Yet, Israel is no longer in the past [exile], they are still struggling to stay in peace in the present [journey], but they have a vision of restoration which fills them with joy for the future.
The Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem and the First Temple. When the people returned to Israel, their homes were destroyed. I’m sure they had to leave some of their family and friends in Babylon because not everyone wanted to (or could) make the journey. Yet, God had Shalom for them in the present and they expected the Lord would fill them with joy for the future. They had a vision of God’s faithfulness. So, they prayed and ask God to spill his goodness over them like he had in the past.
This is a good lesson for us all…
Psalm 126 A song for pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem.
1
When the Lord brought back his exiles to Jerusalem,
it was like a dream!
2
We were filled with laughter,
and we sang for joy.
And the other nations said,
“What amazing things the Lord has done for them.”
3
Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us!
What joy!
4
Restore our fortunes, Lord,
as streams renew the desert.
5
Those who plant in tears
will harvest with shouts of joy.
6
They weep as they go to plant their seed,
but they sing as they return with the harvest.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your promise to restore us. Even when we face very difficult times, we know you will remain faithful. Thank you for understanding our temporary tears and moments of despair. Continue to make us stronger and helping us to endure the present while we look forward with joy to the future. In Jesus’ name. Amen.