When I think about the benefits of living a full life, I am reminded about the role which hope has played in my heart through the years. My faith is huge to me. To see it tested and enlarged is a true blessing. To see my capacity for love expand as I continue to follow Jesus in the way of self-sacrifice warms my soul. But my hope fills a different role. It causes me to look forward to today and beyond. Where am I going? Why am I living the way I do? Will there really come a day when I will hear the words “well done” from my King?
I certainly have learned much about passing on the opportunity for faith to the people around me. While there is little I can do to “switch on the lights” within the soul of another person, I can certainly be there when it does happen. I can tell my story of how and when and why God invaded my life. Most of all, I am excited to have a real hope that I can pass on, discuss, and contemplate with my neighbors.
There are many stirring passages on hope (see below) – but here is one of my favorites. “…we who have taken refuge would have strong encouragement to take hold of the hope set before us. This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil…” Hope is my access within the presence of the King Himself.
Priceless – and a great gift for my culture, world, and friends around me.
How do we give the gift of hope? It begins with the treasure of hope within us!
Here is a great hope study from the God Story
An awesome hope song
Enjoy!