Our Hope

3/9/2022

Romans 8:24-25 "For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? For if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience."

This evening our family talked for an extended period of time. We haven't had the chance to do this very often lately, as my husband's new position at work has required long hours and has been very demanding. He shared with us that, although his job is challenging, he really feels it is where God wants him. He is also feeling successful and respected, which was not true with the past two companies where he worked. Unfortunately, my son and I are not currently experiencing that same level of success. We both feel purpose in what we are doing but we struggle. My son works harder than anyone I know to create his smart, humorous, and engaging content, but does not have the success of those in his field that are loud and ridiculous instead of gifted and introspective. I work part time at a non-profit, and although I know God has me there for a reason, what I do does not fulfill me. I have other things that I would like to work on, but am too drained by the end of every workday. We are both happy for my husband, but we cannot help feeling a bit glum. Every once in a while what we are both trying to do seems hopeless. 

Romans 15:4 "For what was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope."

Tonight, as the guys broke away from our conversation to have their nightly devotional time together, I heard an almost audible voice say, "Where does our hope come from?" I just kept hearing, My hope comes from the Lord, the Maker of Heaven and Earth!" over and over again. I had to interrupt their study and pose the same question to them. Right away my son answered, "In Jesus" without missing a beat. This, thankfully, is not a rote response from him, but one he believes deep down is true, and for this I am so very grateful. Hearing him speak that out loud, after feeling a bit down, was a good reminder for us both. I feel confident that, no matter what this life may throw at him, my son's hope will always be in Jesus. Sadly, far too many people do not know this foundational truth of faith. 

In today's world, where fear, judgement, and hatred seem to be running rampant, people need the hope of Christ's mercy, grace, and love so desperately. Even I, as a believer, need to focus on Jesus or I too may be swallowed up with despair. If I have a horizontal viewpoint only, then I can get tossed by the storms that rage around me. However, when I stay with my head lifted and focus vertically, I will feel Holy Spirit power and find peace even when the tempest comes. Where is my hope found? It is found in Jesus, always. 

Romans 15:13 "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."