Psalm Reflection: The Second Sunday of Advent - Cycle C

“The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.” - Psalm 126

What has been the hardest, worst, or most difficult part of your life thus far?

This Psalm was written after the worst moment in the history of the Jewish people at the time: the Babylonian exile. The chosen people of God were ripped away from the Promised land, their homes, their families, and the temple, which was their main connection to God around which their entire practice of their faith revolved. Everything was lost.

It is in this context, when they have returned to a changed homeland to rebuild what was lost, that the words of this Psalm were written: “The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.”

It is easy to be happy or experience joy when everything is going well. Yet, situations like that are rare, and are not long lasting. How do we experience joy in all of the other moments of life, especially in moments of loss and suffering? 

I ask not as someone who has the answers, but as someone who knows that God has brought joy out of moments of complete loss, and He has also brought joy into the midst of my suffering. 

To ask the question, “how has God done great things for you?” can potentially invite the response that “He hasn’t!” because we are so focused on what we want or do not have, that we forget all that God provides and blesses us with on a daily basis.

You may have lost everything. You may feel like you have no one left. You may be having the worst day of your life right now as you read this. But you are still breathing. You can read, or at least understand, these words. You are being willed into existence right now by a God who loves you and has an incredible plan for your life. Even though it may seem like you have nothing left or nothing good happening in your life, realize that the breath in your lungs and the continued beating of your heart are gifts from God. Even in moments of complete darkness and desolation, there is still light. God has brought you through every single thing you have faced so far, have faith that He will continue to do so.

This week, look back at all the difficult moments you have faced and reflect on the good that came from them. 

How did they change you or your life? 

How did they lead you to where you are now?

What good came from them?

Having gratitude in retrospect is easier than having it in the present moment. So, after you reflect on the past, try to take a step back and honestly look at all the good that God is doing in your life right now, at this present moment, and thank Him for it all. Trust He will take care of the rest!

I am always praying for you, please pray for me, and I will see you in the Eucharist.

Matt