The words "until now" point to our past. Whether it's been twenty or seventy years, "until now the Lord has helped!" Through poverty and wealth, sickness and health, at home or abroad, on land or sea, in honor or dishonor, in confusion or joy, in trials or triumphs, in prayer or temptation, the Lord has been our help. We love looking down a long avenue of trees, like a green cathedral with its leafy arches. In the same way, look back over the years at the branches of mercy above and the solid pillars of love and faithfulness holding up your joy.

Are there no birds singing in those branches? Surely many sing of mercy received "until now." But those words also point forward. When someone writes "until now," they haven't reached the end; there's more to journey through. More trials, more joys, more temptations, more triumphs, more prayers, more answers, more labor, more strength, more battles, more victories, then sickness, old age, disease, and death.

Is it over then? No! There's more: awakening in Jesus' likeness, thrones, harps, songs, white robes, Jesus' face, fellowship with believers, God's glory, the fullness of eternity, endless joy. Be courageous, believer. With gratitude, raise your "Ebenezer," for the One who has helped you so far will continue to guide you.

In heaven's light, your "until now" will reveal a wondrous and glorious sight to your thankful eyes.