There are many tragedies in life. I was reminded of this by a number of recent blog posts by Adria [1] [2] and Gwen [1], recent events [1] [2] and the ongoing challenge of adequately serving the poor. And honestly, it can be overwhelming at times.
For so long many of us have been given shallow phrases that “everything will be alright” and implied statements that every single event is a good thing. How could we ever believe that? I want the hope that recognizes our world is broken and that God uses every situation for good for those who trust in God. I want more of a hope that has eyes to see hurting and the strong heart to encourage other people to act on those needs.
So what does being a voice of hope mean in these days? What does it mean to live a life of hope? I think I need to read up on that a bit more.
Do you have anything for me to read, to study or to look in life and on the web about true hope?
Late addition:
A timely related post by Chris
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Tuesday May.1.2007 at 12:36 am PDT
Julie
Parke, I appreciate your thoughts and questions on this topic. I don’t have as many thoughts and answers to your (and my) questions about hope as I’d like, but for whatever it’s worth….
I have been thinking lately about how “our hope is in the Lord”. So often we put our hope in less important things without realizing it, but if I can learn to put my hope totally in God, wouldn’t that give a sort of flexibility to respond & be used by him better amidst ever changing circumstances?
I really get tired of those polite cliches like “everything will be alright” when it is not based on God’s promises & God’s character. Our idea of “alright” is often much different than God’s, but yes, ultimately everything will be alright!!
I think we can live a life of hope when we affirm in word and heartfelt belief the truth of God’s promises and unchanging character in the midst of great challenges and suffering. Having faith when it is most needed.
These are just rambling thoughts touching the surface of what I have wrestled with on this topic. I have been trying to access what the bible has to say about hope. I remember a study I did on hope & waiting on God in the Psalms and it is interesting that even there, it was often eschatological in nature.
No mircowave zap fix always to temporary problems…! The suffering and chaos of life seems more real, but it actually just makes the contrast of God’s reality more beautiful. As we live and walk by faith in this broken & struggling world, we can affirm the truth of the faith and hope and love that will last forever. Doesn’t that seem like a bit of hope?