The Christian life consists of ups and downs, and highs and lows. There are times of joy and weeping. Unfortunately, this reality gets neglected in most evangelistic campaigns. The gospel can change your life, but it isn’t a vaccine for life’s disappointments. Rather, the gospel is the antidote to issues and tribulations. In other words, the gospel changes your perspective, but it doesn’t necessarily immunize you from afflictions.
Psalm 126 gives us a glimpse into the Christian life. It begins with rejoicing: “When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion, We were like them that dream. Then was our mouth filled with laughter, And our tongue with singing: Then said they among the heathen, The Lord hath done great things for them. The Lord hath done great things for us; Whereof we are glad” (Psalm 126:1–3). The Lord had restored the good fortunes of Jerusalem. Commentators are unsure of which historical event the psalmist is referring to. But at some point freedom had returned to Jerusalem. Laughter, singing, and gladness are emotions we feel when we experience victory. We can all remember what it was like to experience freedom from sin and guilt. We wanted to tell everyone about it, so they could experience it too!
Notice what happens next: “Turn again our captivity, O Lord, As the streams in the south. They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, Shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him” (Psalm 126:4–6). From liberty to captivity. From singing to weeping.
Circumstances can change overnight. One minute you’re rejoicing over your freedom. And the next moment you’re weeping at your captivity. But your tears are not in vain. Tears are water, and the seeds of joy are watered from the tears of weeping.
Beloved, weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning (Ps. 30:5)!