Where There Is Hope...

In the novel, “Cat’s Cradle” by Kurt Vonnegut, Jr., an important book comes to light. It is titled, “What Can a Thoughtful Man Hope for Mankind on Earth, Given the Experience of the Past Million Years?” The chief character is anxious to read it. But when he does, he finds that it doesn’t take long. The whole book consists of one word: “Nothing.”   - Kurt Vonnegut, Jr., Cat’s Cradle.

We live in times of great uncertainty. In our world, there are changes and upheaval that have left many people worried about the future. There are concerns about the economy, political and social conflict, war, and employment, to name a few. Needless to say, there's more than enough reason for people to lose hope.

If I may, I'd like to focus on the word "hope." Molly Edmonds explains it this way, "Hope is the belief that circumstances in the future will be better. It's not a wish that things will get better, but an actual belief, even when there may be no evidence that anything will change."

That belief can be translated into meaning "Jesus Christ," who has provided us with much needed words of hope and comfort. In addition, He has promised to give each of us much needed hope in specific areas of our lives. He has left is with "hope" for tomorrow.

Jesus tells us that He has already prepared a place for us (John 14:2). There, we will live in God's house; in His presence, free from sin and the troubles of this life. For the child of God, death is not the end; it's simply a time to go home (2 Corinthians 5:1-8).

In John 14:3, Jesus reminds us that He will return for His people one day. Paul expounds upon this glorious event in 1 Corinthians 15:51-52; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17. He's coming back and you better be ready!

Jesus also talks about a heavenly homecoming to his disciples, who are upset about the thought of him leaving. He tells them that although he will go on ahead, he goes to prepare a place for them. Then he will return, taking them back with him.

As you can see, we don't have to live in doubt, despair, and hopelessness. Though He has gone on before us, He promised He would be back. Until then, He has left us with everything we need. The "hope" that one is longs for is right under your nose. Christ left us his teachings, He left us His Word.

I agree that at times our future can seem bleak and hopeless. But, with Christ there is hope. He is the one thing, the only thing, that you can always count on. No matter what might be happening in your life, He is the only constant. Won't you place your "hope" in Him today?

Scripture: 1 John 3:3; Romans 5:4; Lamentations 3:24; Psalm 71:5; Psalm 71:14

Prayer: Dear Lord, You bring me hope when there is no reason to have any. You give me hope, when I don't deserve any. You provide hope, as no one else can, or ever could. Amen

May God bless you always,

Brandi