Psalms 126

1 A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem. When the Lord brought his people back from captivity to Zion, it was as if we were dreaming!

A Canticle in steps. When the Lord turned back the captivity of Zion, we became like those who are consoled.

2 We laughed so much, we sang for joy. The other nations said, “The Lord has done wonderful things for these people.”

Then our mouth was filled with gladness and our tongue with exultation. Then they will say among the nations: “The Lord has done great things for them.”

3 The Lord certainly has done wonderful things for us. How happy we were!

The Lord has done great things for us. We have become joyful.

4 Please return and help us again, Lord. Renew us like streams of water that renew the Negev desert.

Convert our captivity, O Lord, like a torrent in the south.

5 Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy!

Those who sow in tears shall reap in exultation.

6 Those who weep as they go out to sow their seed will be singing in celebration when they carry the harvest home.

When departing, they went forth and wept, sowing their seeds. But when returning, they will arrive with exultation, carrying their sheaves.