'Your Sorrow Will Turn into Joy'
Dear Friends,
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
In Japan, Mount Fuji stands as a breathtaking landmark, drawing thousands of tourists with its serene beauty. As one travels towards this majestic peak, various advertisements for hotels appear along the way. One banner read, "Hotel Above Worry Level," while another promised, "Happiness Ahead." These words capture the desire for peace and joy—a longing we all share. Indeed, Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet), offers visitors a sense of relaxation and comfort. However, this joy is temporary. The burdens of life resume as soon as the journey ends. This is a reminder that no earthly experience can provide lasting peace and true happiness. Only God can bring a complete solution to our struggles.
Psalm 126:1 says, "When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream." The Israelites, after decades of captivity in Babylon, could hardly believe their sudden deliverance. They had expected a struggle, perhaps a leader like Moses confronting the Babylonian rulers. Yet, unexpectedly, King Cyrus conquered Babylon and decreed their freedom. Their deliverance came so swiftly and miraculously that they described it as a dream come true. God used an unlikely instrument—Cyrus—to restore His people. This psalm is their song of praise, a testimony of God’s power to turn sorrow into joy.
Like the Israelites, we often find ourselves trapped in difficult circumstances—burdens, uncertainties, and struggles that seem endless. But just as God restored His people, He sees our needs, hears our prayers, and will act in His perfect time. His faithfulness never fails. We may not know when or how our breakthrough will come, but when it does, it will be miraculous—just like a dream. Our true happiness and peace come not from this world but from God alone.
As we meditate on God’s promises, let us also embrace our calling to share His love and extend His blessings to those around us. This February, may we dedicate ourselves to being instruments of His grace—offering support to the needy, bringing hope to the weary, and striving for the renewal of our communities. Just as God restored Israel, He invites us to be bearers of His peace and love in today’s world. With this heart for mission, I warmly welcome you to our Special Family Sunday Service on World Mission Sunday, 23rd February, at Rivercourt Methodist Church, Hammersmith. Let us unite in worship and gratitude, trusting that God, in His perfect time, will transform our sorrows into joy.
May the Lord bless you abundantly. Amen!
In Christ’s Love,
Rev’d Prasad Vasanthakumar
Minister, London Tamil Christian Congregation