Thanksgiving Scripture - Nov 28

Thanksgiving Month Introduction...

Psalm 126:1-6
（Memorization Scripture 1-6）
1 When the Lord brought back the captivity of Zion,
We were like those who dream.
2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter, And our tongue with singing.
Then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.”
3 The Lord has done great things for us, And we are glad.
4 Bring back our captivity, O Lord, As the streams in the South.
5 Those who sow in tears, Shall reap in joy.
6 He who continually goes forth weeping, Bearing seed for sowing,
Shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, Bringing his sheaves with him.

【Reflection】The more we realize the great changes that have taken place in us since being saved by Christ (as seen in the before and after comparison in verses 4-6), the broader and deeper our gratitude towards God becomes because He has truly done great things for us. This psalm helps us understand that the people being able to return from the Babylonian captivity in the sixth century BC (as recorded in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah) was entirely due to God's grace, and not just a result of the policies of the King Cyrus of Persia. Their rejoicing was not only because they could go back home, but also because God's people could once again enjoy the abundant life and presence that God had originally promised them. Just as the dry southern land of Israel had rivers flowing again after a downpour, the praises, laughter, and hopes of the returning people were also restored. Those who went out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them, for indeed God has done great things for them.
Let us today thank God together, for in Christ, He has brought us, who were once captives, back into His presence, and now we are able to abide in Him, be filled with Him, and find our delight in Him!