Joy and Pain

A Reflection on the Psalm for December 9th, 2018:
​Second Sunday of Advent

Psalms 126:1-6

R. The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.

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 they said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them." 3 The LORD has done great things for us; we are glad. 4 Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like the watercourses in the Negeb! 5 May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy! 6 He that goes forth weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.

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Although I’ve never broken any bones, I did once tear a tendon in my finger. It was an odd experience when I tried to straighten my finger — as hard as I tried, the top of the finger just hung. I could not lift it from its dangling position. Getting the news from the doctor in the emergency room that she was referring me to a plastic surgeon, automatically caused my mind to wonder about what surgery would look like to repair the torn tendon.

A week later I met with the plastic surgeon. To my surprise, I was told that if I kept my finger splinted for 9 weeks, the tendon would repair itself! After a long couple of months, when I finally removed the splint, I was amazed to find the surgeon was right — the tendon healed, and over time I had a fully functioning finger again.

Just as torn tendons heal, and burned down forests are able to grow back, God’s ability to restore new life is beyond our understanding. We can all experience feelings of captivity and misfortune in life, but God doesn’t leave us there. When we are burdened by whatever is going on in our lives, we must trust in its temporary status and believe that God will see us through.

"Just as torn tendons heal, and burned down forests are able to grow back, God’s ability to restore new life is beyond our understanding."

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God actually wants to use those times of tragedy or captivity to bring about good. Sometimes it can be a sign that He is preparing us for something great. That is why it is important to remain steadfast in our prayer. It isn’t always easy to pray psalms of praise when we feel this way, but Psalm 126 reminds us of the joy that God gives when he restores us to well being.

We must remain patient and persistent until God turns our tears into shouts of joy.

​Tammy LeBlanc

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