HOPE: how we and our world need it!

Unlike the Old Testament where hope focused on a future Messiah, New Testament hope is firmly rooted in Jesus’ accomplished resurrection and his promise to be with us until the end of time (Mt 28:20).  In his first letter St. Peter proclaims this clearly: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable and unfading, kept in heaven for you” (1:3-4). Is that living hope really ALIVE in me?

HOPE: how we and our world need it!

Some of the Bible’s most consoling, quoted words are from Jeremiah the prophet: “I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (11:29). We often think these words promise a bright, smooth road ahead for us. But that’s not God’s message.  The people he spoke to were living in exile, almost drowning in despair. God doesn’t promise a magic wand or easy path for them but assures them his plans are ultimately good. One day he will fulfill his promise to bring them out of hardship if in the midst of the hardships they faithfully trust him and work with him to bring about restoration and new life.

HOPE: how we and our world need it!

What is HOPE?  Many think it’s optimism – like the expression: “Don’t worry; things will get better.” Optimism is a personality trait of some people, but it’s not always grounded in reality (things don’t always get better). Hope is a virtue, not a personality trait. Along with faith and love, our catechism calls it a theological virtue: a gift from God to struggling human beings. But it’s also a choice which God asks us struggling human beings to make every day, to live grounded in his presence and love in the midst of turmoil and difficulty.