This week is the beginning of Advent. Our focus this week is Hope of the anticipation of Christ’s coming. Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines hope as “to cherish a desire with anticipation.”
We ponder on the hope of Joseph and Mary in the coming of the Christ child. We also ponder the hope, both the past and present, in our own lives. How many times in your life have you said the word hope—such as “I hope you get better soon,” or “I hope to see you again soon.”
We start having hope as children. Remember at Christmas saying to yourself, “I hope I get a bicycle for Christmas” or “I hope that person will become my best friend.” However, what if you never told anyone that you wanted a bike or you were too shy or scared to talk to the person you wanted as your best friend?
We continue hoping through life, even into our senior years. “I hope I don’t get a dread disease” or “I hope I don’t break a bone.” As in the child’s case, the hope requires action—developing healthy habits and visiting the doctor regularly might lead to the hope becoming reality.
We find inspiration and strength for holding on to our hope by building our faith through meditation, prayer for strength, and Scripture. Some words of former ministers have stayed with me in times of losing hope. Joe Phelps said, “Find the home inside of us where we feel all is at peace.” Mary Alice Birdwhistle said, “Find the calm around you—then take the next right step with bold hope and the courage to change.”
The Bible states in Hebrews, “Hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls.” Sometimes hope is living through our concerns while holding on to the knowledge that God will see us through. May you have faith to sustain your hope until you find and show peace, joy, and love.
Prayer: Dear God, we know that faith in you will lead us to hope. Thank you for being with us day by day. May we continue to grow in faith and hope. Amen.
Lula Reynolds started attending HBC in 1997, became a member in 2009, and is retired from teaching deaf and hearing-impaired students.