A Time of Restoration

Psalm 126

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 Negev.

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.

As the summer comes to an end and the temperature comes down, I’ve been having so many conversations about what our members are hoping for this fall. It has been energizing, maybe even joyful? As we discuss what kinds of events and special themes and opportunities we want to try this fall.

I don’t know if we’ll have a “return” in the same way that the Psalmist talks about it. After all, from everything I hear in the news, it seems likely that COVID is likely to still cause trouble when the weather cools down again. We might not necessarily completely leave the time and place of caution for a new time and place of opportunity and joy. But, I’m ready to start dreaming, how about you?

I’m ready to start dreaming of what new neighbors God is calling First members to come and meet. So far this summer, each of our “Faith and Neighboring” gatherings - the Bonfire, Brats and Bomb-pops gatherings on each 3rd Wednesday of the summer - have felt like such a success, not only because we get to meet some of our neighbors, but also because we’ve been able to reconnect and have a little fun outside together as a community. What new connections are you dreaming about?

I’m ready to start dreaming of what special focus, what special impact we hope to have this fall in our community? In the midst of so many changes to ministries like NEAR and EveryMeal, what hopes and dreams come to mind for ways we can renew those connections?

I’m ready to start dreaming of the vibrant worship which will gather us on Sunday mornings. How will song and bells and instruments lead our songs in praise and fill our mouths “with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy?”

As I look towards September and beyond, I’m hopeful that we’re entering a season of renewal and restoration. With your help, I know we’ll all be able to say together: “The Lord has done great things for us.” I know we’ll be ready to rejoice.