You turned my mourning into joyful dancing

This past week has been one of considerable mourning for us as a Church community.  It was been particularly hard for a number of our members.  In particular our love and prayers are with the Davies, Wright, Gous and Bartlett families at this time!

The Psalmist always has an interesting way of looking at life.  Considering the losses that we have endured this past week I was starting to wonder how we might approach our Jubilee celebrations that are due to commence in a few short weeks (starting Sunday 24 February).  It was in this frame of mind that I found myself pondering Psalm 30, especially the last few verses.

It is super tough losing loved ones!  However as Christians, we do not mourn as those who have no hope.  Instead we are a people for whom our mourning is filled with the hope and peace of our Lord and God, a God who is able to turn our mourning into joyful dancing...and clothe us with joy.

And so our response to Him, even through pain and mourning, can be one of praise.  Even amid our sorrow and loss, still we can praise Him.  Let's ponder this as we prepare for our month of Jubilee coming up.

Psalm 30:10-12
Hear me, Lord, and have mercy on me.
Help me, O Lord.
You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing.   
You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy,
that I might sing praises to you
and not be silent.
O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever!