Weeping Turned to Joy

Today we are with Jewish pilgrims on the road to Jerusalem. In this psalm we reflect on a previous judgment of God on his people, as the whole nation went into captivity because of their sin–and yet God brought them back and restored them to their land. The wonder of a gracious God is astonishing to them and a witness to the nations around.

However, they are not yet fully enjoying all the blessings that God has for his people. They weep over the state of the land and those who have not returned, but with confidence that there will be an abundant harvest. We have seen Jesus the Son of God who gives his life to bear the sin of his people. His resurrection brings the restoration and re-creation of God’s people so that the nations can rejoice in what happens to Israel and become part of his redeemed people.

So many in this world have not yet seen the wonder of God’s salvation in Jesus Christ–the path of return from exile into God’s presence. We should weep over such people. With weeping goes seed sowing (5)–the proclamation of the Gospel. We must answer and ask questions as Jesus did, that in the power of the Holy Spirit we might lead the captives back. Only when the full harvest is in will we truly be able to sing songs of joy (6) and stand in the heavenly Jerusalem praising our Lord and Savior.

Which of the two stages of prayer in verse 6 do you identify with? In other words, are you sowing or reaping, weeping or singing?