Psalm 126 (NRSV)

1 When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion,we were like those who dream.2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter,and our tongue with shouts of joy;then it was said among the nations,“The Lord has done great things for them.”3 The Lord has done great things for us,and we rejoiced.4 Restore our fortunes, O Lord,like the watercourses in the Negeb.5 May those who sow in tearsreap with shouts of joy.6 Those who go out weeping,bearing the seed for sowing,shall come home with shouts of joy,carrying their sheaves.

Songs of ascent were sung as the people went “up the hill” into Jerusalem for times of celebration and solemn assembly. Much like songs you listen to in your car on road trips, these psalms would have been used to set the attitude and pass the time for a long journey’s walk.

Notice the retelling of a celebratory time that leads into a request for God to do it again in this generation.

As the new quarter dawns and spring is definitely in the air (except for the 26 degrees here in Lexington today!), what is it that you are asking God to do? What is it that you are living in full anticipation that God will make happen for your benefit and that of others?

Let me encourage you to write down two things todays.  First is to count your blessings. What has God done that you will never forget? Secondly, what is it that you are trusting God for today? Keep these in front of you this quarter and continue to pray and watch to see what God may very well be up to.

God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, your very nature is to be steadfast and faithful. You not only care for us but your power is capable. Do for us what we cannot do for ourselves so that our lips may sing your praise and our lives give witness to you holy name.