Psalm 126

“When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream” (v1).  This psalm reflects the joy of those who had been exiled to Babylon and then, after many years, were allowed to return to Israel.  Jeremiah had prophesied that this would happen, and God exceeded their hopes.  “The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad” (v3).  The people’s dramatic return to Israel also glorified God’s name “among the nations” (v2).

“Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!” (v5).  With God, sowing in tears, exile and failure, is never the end. Christ has conquered the darkness, and in Him we have a joyful future.