THE STORY OF JESUS: Psalm 126
“Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.” (Psalm 126:5)
The things that normally cause tears are wrong, bad, unfair or hurtful.
There’s something wrong if we don’t weep at injustice, grief or tragedy.
Tears are universal, a natural response to our messed up world.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4)
Tears are not weakness, they are indications of deep strength and goodness.
Our inborn awareness that we were made for more than this.
We should weep for death, sickness, war, rape, violence, abuse, bullying etc.
We should hate the things that hurt anyone, and long for God’s better future.
Tears are not wasted; like seed they’re planted and one day will bloom.
We still weep for what is wrong, but through our tears we see Jesus…
Jesus has defeated the Enemy and the overcome the curse.
Jesus has reclaimed the throne, and is making things ‘very good’ again.
As a Jesus follower, I keep looking up, even when things are sad.
One day, there will be no more tears, thanks to Jesus!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, You are working to restore all things, to make all things ‘very good’ again. Until then I will still hate what is bad, but I will not despair. For You have overcome the world!
‘The Lord has done great things for us,
and we are filled with joy.’
On the last day of 2018 and as I stand on threshold of a new year I take a look on the past year and see how the Lord has blessed us. We can see how He has guided us in times of difficulty and in the times of blessings – able to serve Him both locally and globally = ‘glocal.’ And as we/I approach the new year may we/I always be in step with Him as He continues to lead and guide us in the Way. And may we/I keep my small hand in His big hand for that is comfort.
The joy of the Lord God is my strength!
Verse 1
The joy of the Lord is my strength
The joy of the Lord is my strength
The joy of the Lord is my strength
The joy of the Lord is my strength
Verse 2
The word of faith is nigh thee
Even in thy mouth
The word of faith is nigh thee
Even in thy mouth
The word of faith is nigh thee
Even in thy mouth
The joy of the Lord is my strength
Verse 3
He gives me living water
And I thirst no more
He gives me living water
And I thirst no more
He gives me living water
And I thirst no more
The joy of the Lord is my strength
Verse 4
Since you have His joy
You may shout with it
Since you have His joy
You may dance with it
Since you have His joy
You may laugh with it
The joy of the Lord is my strength