Our Living Hope!

Our Living Hope!
Webster's dictionary defines hope as: "to desire with expectation of obtainment or fulfillment." Hope is a belief or expectation that something will happen. If it does not, we may often experience discouragement, depression, or even despair. How can one remain hopeful in this world of constant challenge and despair? First, we must remember the reason for our confidence: our relationship with Jesus! We are reborn into a living hope in Jesus' resurrection victory as His redeemed followers. In Jesus, we are new creations, no longer prisoners to this world of sin and death. With the promised Holy Spirit dwelling in us, we are co-heirs with our living Savior, and our true eternal home is in heaven with Him.
Secondly, we must spend time in God's Holy Word! Romans 15:4 says the Bible was written to give us encouragement and hope. The Psalms are a good place to turn when the world presses in on you and dims your hope. The Psalms express the writers' feelings and can provide us comfort and hope when needed. Finally, always remember and rely on the Lord's faithfulness. Trusting in God will always turn out for our good. Always! Our God has given us a living hope in Jesus, and He also gives us grace for each day of our journey. As the redeemed, we shouldn't react to our trials as the world does. Instead, we are to live by faith in the "confidence in what we hope for" (Heb. 11:1). Dear friends, when this fallen world or our circumstances begin to overwhelm us, place your hope and focus on Jesus. Look for encouragement in God's word and remember God's promises to us in Christ Jesus (Eph. 1:3-8). Jesus promised to be with us to the end of the ages, for He alone is our living hope and eternal hope. Thanks be to God!
Easter Blessings,
Fr. Greg+

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