Psalm 126

A song for pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem.

1When the Lord brought back his exiles to Jerusalem,*

it was like a dream!

2We were filled with laughter,

and we sang for joy.

And the other nations said,

“What amazing things the Lord has done for them.”

3Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us!

What joy!

4Restore our fortunes, Lord,

as streams renew the desert.

5Those who plant in tears

will harvest with shouts of joy.

6They weep as they go to plant their seed,

but they sing as they return with the harvest.

Psalm 127

A song for pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem. A psalm of Solomon.

1Unless the Lord builds a house,

the work of the builders is wasted.

Unless the Lord protects a city,

guarding it with sentries will do no good.

2It is useless for you to work so hard

from early morning until late at night,

anxiously working for food to eat;

for God gives rest to his loved ones.

3Children are a gift from the Lord;

they are a reward from him.

4Children born to a young man

are like arrows in a warrior’s hands.

5How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them!

He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates.