Psalm 126: The Promise of Joy
WORSHIP
LAUDS
Written by Frances Rivera
Read Psalm 126
What a gift to know that joy comes from the assurance of God’s goodness.
Just as the Israelites sang the Psalms of Ascent three times a year, I often find myself revisiting three pivotal moments in my life during moments of quiet reflection. These are the times when I encountered the presence of the Lord amidst the heaviness of life's burdens, experiencing restoration and joy.
My first encounter was in my childhood home, where I found salvation. The second was when I felt disillusioned with the world, yet encountered the divine grace that renewed my spirit. Lastly, I met God through the profound kindness of people who became unexpected blessings in my life. In each of these encounters, the Lord not only lifted me from despair but also transformed my tears of anguish into tears of exultation.
As I am writing this, it makes me think how I can create a practice of revisiting these moments three times a year to be specific in prayer, crying out in joy for these experiences to draw nearer to God, seeking not just solace but wholeness, hope, and unbridled joy.
As today’s devotional song resonates:
”Blessed are the tears of all the weary.”
“Hope is in the Lord, keep your eyes on him.”
“Hold on a little more.”
Psalm 126 says in verse 6, “He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.”
Sheaves symbolize the abundant blessings of God, awaiting those who persevere.
Hold on a little more because the Lord will give you the abundance; His blessings because you have been diligent and faithful with your walk, even if it has been rocky.
I can attest that even at this moment, I am weary and tired. I am hanging on to the Lord’s garment, the same garment touched by the woman who, in her relentless pursuit, touched the hem, and found healing amidst her years of suffering.
So, hold on a little longer, for the Lord promises abundance to those who steadfastly tread the path, even amidst trials.
Reflection
Reflecting on Psalm 126, consider this: How can you cultivate a practice of revisiting moments of encounter with God, where tears of anguish were transformed into tears of exultation?
How might intentionally recalling these moments in prayer bring you closer to God and deepen your faith in His goodness and provision?
Read this prayer and make it your own based on the devotional. Share it with a friend who you know may need to read/hear this in this season.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
In the midst of our tears, we find the promise of joy. Thank You for the beauty of transformation, for turning our sorrow into shouts of exultation. Help us to remember the moments when Your presence lifted us from despair and restored our spirits.
Guide us in creating a practice of revisiting these sacred encounters, that in prayer, we may draw nearer to You. Grant us the strength to hold on a little longer, trusting in Your goodness and provision. May our tears of anguish be sown as seeds of faith, knowing that in due time, we will reap abundant blessings.
As we journey through weariness and trials, may we cling to Your garment, finding healing and hope in Your presence. Hold us close, O Lord, and lead us into the fullness of joy that comes from walking faithfully with You.
VESPERS
O God Who Lifts
By Randall William White
All praise to you,
God of the once heavy-laden
Of forgotten captives freed by DNA results,
Of ragged mountaineers who offload their packs to the ground
As the destination appears mercifully ‘round a bend,
The sweating draw-horse as the harness is removed,
Of those who, handcuffed by worry, are given
Permission to breath again
By the announcement of good news.
Your shoulder is sure.
All praise to you,
God of relief
Who breaks through the monotonous canopy
With a theater spot of sun on an
Empty stage of gray ocean,
Making silver.
Your voice is over the waters.
All praise to you,
Lifter of things -
Of pelicans and 747s
Of helpless captains grounded on a sandbar
As the savior tide arrives,
And familial heads drooped in uncertainty.
Your tender hand is beneath
Countless chins.
