Drag That Hope Right Along with You!
For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15:4
Me: Jesus, I want more hope.
JESUS: That is a big order. Why do you think you need it?
ME: I know people who have experienced that “all is lost” feeling—including me. I want to have enough to get me through whatever happens.
JESUS: The good news is this: you already have it.
ME: I know, but it hasn’t been easy. Some have chewed their nails down to the quick, paced a trail in the rug, run for miles, drunk too much, taken too many Xanax, plastered fake smiles on our faces, and become self-absorbed.
JESUS: Yet, somewhere deep inside is that flicker of hope.
ME: Yes, but in the process, we have hidden from our friends and family with that gnawing in our bellies that questions if we are going to make it this time.
JESUS: Tell Me, precious child, have I ever let you down before?
ME: No but it seems to take You longer than I’d like.
JESUS: That is the difference between you and Me. I am Your Savior—not you!
ME: I didn’t mean it that way.
JESUS: Yes, you did, but I do understand. When you become hopeless, you want a rapid response. Sometimes I will and other times I won’t give it to you immediately. You carry with you a bag full of experiences. Sort through them and find the times when hope was not enough to pull you out of your mind-made darkness.
ME: Ah…well… I don’t think there are any.
JESUS: You are correct. When I shine My Light of hope on you, there is an immediate dispelling of darkness. All the darkness? No, if you choose to ignore Me, shadows remain.
ME: That is why I want more hope.
JESUS: That is exactly why you are going to drag that hope right along with you. The heavier the bag of experiences, the more hope you’ll have.
ME: What if it’s too heavy? What if I can’t carry it?
JESUS: I will help you.