A young nurse comes home from the oncology ward to a picture on her wall of Jesus carrying a child in his arms, and she can no longer reconcile that picture with prayers that went unanswered. From this story begins a reflection on Psalms 126 and 127: the song of people whose fortunes turned completely around, and a cry that dry riverbeds might fill with water again. The sermon offers two things for a time of crisis: remember what God has already done for you, and remember who he is. Listen if you are calling out to God and hearing no reply.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Psalm 126 was most likely sung by people returning from exile in Babylon. What might the words "we were like those who dreamed" have meant to them, and why does the psalmist immediately pray again, "Restore our fortunes"?
- The preacher described the dry riverbeds of the Negev desert that suddenly come to life after the rain. What does this picture tell us about how God can change a situation that looks dead?
- The psalmist prays with confidence because he remembers what God did before. What event from your own history with God do you recall when your prayers seem to go unanswered?
- Psalm 127 says, "Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain." Where in your work, family, or plans is it easiest for you to believe that everything depends on your own effort?
- The preacher said that what we call luck is really God's sovereign decision, and he pointed to Jesus' call to seek first the kingdom of God. How does this truth change the way you look at success and failure?
- In what crisis or difficult matter can you deliberately remind yourself this week of who God is, hand it over to Him, and wait patiently?
