When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. 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.’ The LORD has done great things for us, and we rejoiced. Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like the watercourses in the Negeb. May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy. Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves.
These words from Psalm 126 paint a compelling picture of enthusiasm and celebration. Mouths are filled with laughter and shouts of joy, recognizing God’s blessings, and trusting that the harvest will be bountiful, even for those who struggle now.
Providing enthusiasm is one way we care for our communities. Enthusiasm can propel us all forward, looking to a brighter future, and trusting that the seeds we’ve planted will bear much fruit, even if that fruit looks different from what we expected.
This message is adapted from a stewardship devotion by Emma Crossen in Interchange, the quarterly newsletter of Women of the ELCA. Today is the fourth Sunday after Pentecost.