God Has Done Great Things for Us, Filled Us with Laughter and Music
Do you have a favorite song or expression that comes to mind when you hear favorable news? The Babylonian Captivity has ended and the Israelites are returning to their homeland, singing Psalm 126. The psalm is a prayer of gratitude and petition. The people are to remember that God was and is with them. In light of the Jeremiah reading, the psalm invites us to look at the events of our lives, what is happening in the world, and discern what God is doing in our midst. The psalm recognizes God as the salvation of the poor and vulnerable. We are called to remember that GOD SAVES, inspiring us to gratitude and a renewed commitment to further the work of God on behalf of those most in need. There are times we may “sow in tears” but eventually we will “reap rejoicing.”
Our God brings us back to Zion, we are like dreamers,
laughing, dancing, with songs on our lips.
Other nations say, “A new world of wonders! Their God is with them.”
Yes, God, works wonders. Rejoice! Be glad!
God, bring us back as water to thirsty land.
Those sowing in tears reap, singing and laughing.
They left weeping, casting the seed.
They come back singing, holding high the harvest.
[verses adapted from The Psalter © 1995, Archdiocese of Chicago: Liturgy Training Publications.]