Psalm 126(125) In convertendo

(A song of ascents.)

1 When the Lord gave back Sion her banished sons, we walked like men in a dream;

2 in every mouth was laughter, joy was on every tongue. Among the heathen themselves it was said, What favour the Lord has shewn them!

3 Favour indeed the Lord has shewn us, and our hearts are rejoiced.

4 Deliver us, Lord, from our bondage; our withered hopes, Lord, like some desert water-course renew!

5 The men who are sowing in tears will reap, one day, with joy.

6 Mournful enough they go, but with seed to scatter; trust me, they will come back rejoicing, as they carry their sheaves with them. (KNOX)