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And the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

What more promise do you need? This is such a beautiful image to me. I'm a very visual person so it is easy for me to visualize this scene: I see a huge, beautiful, awe-inspiring mountain. The light hits everything perfectly, illuminating the nature awesomeness that is all around. I see a narrow, uneven road (the Way of Holiness), a highway to the Zion. On this road, I see people who look they have been through the wringer, clothes torn, hair out of place, no shoes, etc. But in spite of looking terrible and the road being difficult, they are jumping up and down, dancing, shouting, singing, falling to their knees in unstoppable worship. The One Who Paid the Price is leading them back. They are shouting His praises. The Father is on the mountain, watching the scene, ready to receive His ransomed people. I picture joy and mercy literally falling like rain on these people. Maybe like one of those afternoon showers we get round here where it's still sunny while it pours rain. I see the people rejoicing in this rain. There is nothing bad to be found. Smiles are on every face and tears of gratitude are in every eye (though they are probably pouring down their faces). People who were once lame are running to the mountain. People who were once blind are walking with full sight. People who were sick or broken or what have you are ransomed and redeemed because of their faith and because of what He has done. Following the Good Shepherd. What a sight!

It is a scene I hope to witness someday. It might not be like this. I'm sure it will be much more incredible. 


Lord, let the thought of You fill my heart with praise and longing. Let me soul be thirsty for more of You. I praise You for the good promises You've made, and I look forward to the day when they are a reality. Praise You for Your Righteousness, Holiness and above all Mercy. Praise You for the Joy You freely give us!


Amen. Amen. Amen.