“When the LORD restored his exiles to Jerusalem, it was like a dream! We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, “What amazing things the LORD has done for them.” Yes, the LORD has done amazing things for us! What joy! Restore our fortunes, LORD, as streams renew the desert. Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest.” Psalm 126 (NLT)
God had allowed the Babylonians to capture his people and carry them away as slaves. But in reality, they were exiles from the presence of God because of their idolatry and disobedience. They didn’t have their normal access to Jerusalem, the Temple, and the presence of God. When the Lord finally restored them to Jerusalem, what joy filled their souls. They laughed uncontrollably like little children at Christmas.
Have you ever been exiled? Maybe not . . . but have you ever felt like you were abandoned and alone? Can you remember what it is like to be alienated from the presence of the Lord? Then to come into the church on Sunday and the Spirit of God floods your soul with refreshing joy and renewal. To sing for joy and be filled with holy laughter. Oh, how wonderful these streams of living waters! They renew the desert of a dry and thirsty soul. Amazing! What joy! We may cry tears of sorrow as we plant but the harvest will bring shouts of praise and joyful singing.
Dear Father, thank you for the joy of your mercy and grace. Fill our hearts with joy and our mouths with singing. In Jesus’ name. AMEN
Let us praise God for his abiding presence and shout praises to his name,