Sow in Tears, Reap with Joy
By Jarrett Meek, Founder/Pastor/Executive Director
When Cyrus the Great, King of ancient Persia, took control of what had been Babylon, a new door opened for the captive Jewish people- the opportunity to return to their homeland. Generations had passed since they were taken captive, but the longing for home remained. Can you imagine the hopeful songs of joy they sang as they returned to Jerusalem after generations in captivity?
“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” - Psalm 126:1-2
How long had the Jewish people toiled in prayer, pleading with God to see this day? How long had they cried out to the Lord, that He would hear and bring them home?
“Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like streams in the Negeb!” - Psalm 126:4
A long season of hardship gave way to exciting possibilities and new dreams. Suffering and sadness were replaced with joy and hope. A long winter turned to spring.
“Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy! He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:5-6
So it was with the people of Israel, and so may it be with us! Though our hardship can not be compared to the depth of theirs, we too have lived through a painful season. Looking back, it could be said that for many reasons the year 2020 was a year sown in tears. And, while we are still struggling with the effects of a global pandemic, we are praying that the Lord would bring a harvest of joy in 2021. And, when He does, let the nations say,
“‘The Lord has done great things for them.’ The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad.” Psalm 126:3
Will you join us in planting “Seeds of Hope” and praying the Lord would bring a harvest of joy in 2021?
Checkout these seeds of hope from the Mission Adelante community!
#SeedsofHopeKC
Why does Mission Adelante's logo have a leaf growing out of it? It's all connected to what's in the special box many of you will be receiving in the mail this week. Watch this brief video to learn about this unique 2021 theme and our #SeedsofHopeKC series.
