Day 177
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| Back in the Land! |
Scripture
Observation
Psalms 120-134 are called "songs of degrees" (literally songs of ascents") sung by Jewish travelers on the way up to the Jerusalem temple for the annual days of festival. These hymns of the highway reflect the thoughts of a pilgrim traveling far from home and looking for peace, protection, and provision along the journey.
Application
Homecoming. It's a remarkable feeling. The feeling of being back where you belong, back where the family is together and the surroundings are familiar. Only those who have been away from home for long periods of time can appreciate the feeling.
Psalm 126 describes a homecoming. The people of God, absent from their land of blessing and promise, have come home at last. It is like a dream come true—unspeakable joy punctuated by laughter, singing, and tears of gladness. The pilgrims have returned!
But lest the emotions of the moment sweep you away, don't miss the principle that the psalmist underscores: "Yes, they go out weeping, carrying seeds for sowing, and return singing, carrying sheaves" (126:6). The agony of waiting, like the toil of the farmer, will one day yield its fruit in season. Your tears and toil as a parent, a Sunday school teacher, a faithful employee, a praying neighbor will one day produce a harvest, God has staked his reputation on it. So rejoice! Sing! Laugh! And dream just a little, even as you faithfully labor for the Lord. The harvest is near when weeping will be turned to reaping.
Psalm 126 describes a homecoming. The people of God, absent from their land of blessing and promise, have come home at last. It is like a dream come true—unspeakable joy punctuated by laughter, singing, and tears of gladness. The pilgrims have returned!
But lest the emotions of the moment sweep you away, don't miss the principle that the psalmist underscores: "Yes, they go out weeping, carrying seeds for sowing, and return singing, carrying sheaves" (126:6). The agony of waiting, like the toil of the farmer, will one day yield its fruit in season. Your tears and toil as a parent, a Sunday school teacher, a faithful employee, a praying neighbor will one day produce a harvest, God has staked his reputation on it. So rejoice! Sing! Laugh! And dream just a little, even as you faithfully labor for the Lord. The harvest is near when weeping will be turned to reaping.
Prayer
Almighty God, thank you for keeping us from all evil, and preserving our life for your glory! We know you do not want mere nibblers at the possible but instead you want grabbers of the impossible which is what we do with your Word written on our heart. In our Savior, Jesus name! Amen!
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| Pray for the Impossible |
© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020
