Scripture: Isaiah 40:28-31
What is hope? It is wanting something to happen (Webster’s Dictionary) and believing, with good reason, it will (Cambridge Dictionary). Hopelessness can be defined as wanting something to happen but not believing it will. It is a tragedy for those that experience it, and those who care about them.
What causes hopelessness? Some obvious causes are death of loved ones; the loss of health; advancing age; and difficult life circumstances that we cannot change though our own power. What can one do when hope is lost and, seemingly, cannot be found again?
The Jews of ancient Israel thought they could put their hope in many things: horses and chariots, and other instruments of war; material prosperity; and their identity as God’s chosen. The prophet Isaiah saw another way (Isaiah 40:31):
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not be weary; they will walk and not faint”.
People today look for hope in all kinds of things, just as the people of early Israel did. And, like the Israelites, looking to God as a source of hope is, often, not a first option. The coming of Jesus two thousand years ago changed that. Jesus brought the promise of a new relationship with God. He promised to never abandon his followers, in fact, he promised to live within them. As we invite Jesus into our lives, the Holy Spirit resides in us, and gives us hope. In fact, the spirit gives birth, as scripture says, to a living hope, for now, and the future.
Our community and the world are hungry for something that gives hope. During advent, let’s join with Christian people everywhere and proclaim that Jesus came to give hope to all who seek it. By inviting Jesus into our lives, we enter into a new relationship, and that relationship brings hope. It is a message much needed. It is a message to share, and especially in this season.
Sam Haithcock is married to Marilyn and has been an active member of Yates for many years.