Hope Begins in Darkness
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Romans 12:12 (ESV)
ME: Jesus, I have a problem being hopeful all the time. Sometimes I don’t have much.
JESUS: What draws you to that conclusion?
ME: There is so much darkness, chaos, and unbelief in the world today. It does not seem to be getting better.
JESUS: Do you not believe that I can handle these problems?
ME: No, it isn’t that. I know You are able, maybe it’s more questions of when and why aren’t You taking care of it now?
JESUS: My precious child, this has been an issue for a long time. Scripture has several encouraging words about hope…and I know you’ve read them all. Hope begins in darkness. Without any problems, why would you need hope? Are you feeling hopeless because you don’t think I hear you?
ME: No, I know You hear me. I…I want the world to be more peaceful. I want my life to be easier. I think there are some who are being overlooked with blessings. Jesus, I don’t pretend to think like You but these things make me feel sad. Especially this time of year when…
JESUS: …Stop for a moment! May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.* If My Father said He would do it, rest assured, He will.
ME: Maybe it’s not hopelessness after all. Maybe it’s just here we are again at the most blessed time of year and I feel an emptiness that I cannot really explain. I don’t like being in the dark. It scares me.
JESUS: Well, that makes more sense.
ME: I feel afraid sometimes and my world seems dark, too dark for me to find my way. Some days I just feel a little lost because I’m facing an unknown. I’m embarrassed to admit it.
JESUS: Please remember that hope does not put anyone to shame, because God's love has been poured into your hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to you.*
ME: Wait…are you telling me that hope is being able to see the light despite all the darkness?
JESUS: Yes, my child! Do not let the world drain your faith. I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.*
ME: So, hope is like an anchor?
JESUS: Yes! Trust me and hang on.
Romans 15:13 (ESV)*
Romans 5:5, (ESV)*
John 8:12 (ESV)*