The psalmist requests of Hashem, "Bring back our return, O Lord, like the streams in the south (Psalm 126:4)."    This verse parallels the first verse, "when the Lord brought back the return of Zion."  The double expression "bringing back the return" alludes to the restoration of a formerly good situation.   The psalmist asks that just as G-D has done good deeds for us in the past, may He continue doing great things for us in the future.  Alternatively, the psalmist is affirming that G-D has begun the return, and asking that He complete the redemption, finishing what He has begun.   The streams in the south are dry for most of the year, becoming suddenly full from powerful downpours and storms.  In similar fashion, we ask that Hashem bring the good upon us suddenly.  We, who are experiencing the dryness of our exile, seek the sudden good that Hashem can bring.   Sudden and unexpected good restores faith and bolsters our commitment to serving Hashem and keeping His Torah. 

Copyright, Rachel Lerner 2008