Information overload! News channels, blogs, social media and newsletters continue to come thick and fast with COVID-19 information, advertising, commentary, reflection and speculation. Much of it is helpful and well-intended. However, it can overwhelm. Can I encourage us today to hang on to hope.
What is hope?
When this all began, a friend confided that they just hoped life would return to normal as soon as possible; so that plans and ambitions can get back on track. I understand that desire. Perhaps you have felt it too? However, it’s important for us to remind one another that this is not Biblical hope. 1 Peter 1 is about a living hope that is grounded in Jesus’ resurrection and His promised return. This New Testament letter was certainly addressed to people who knew what uncertainty and suffering is.
Our hope, our living hope, is in God’s unfolding plan which we see in the life, death, resurrection and promised return of Jesus to bring a new heaven and a new earth. This hope goes beyond our plans and ambitions. This hope calls us to hold those plans and ambitions lightly. Not an easy task.
Peter encourages us not to hold on to this hope just for ourselves, but to share it with others.
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15
From the foundation of our living hope we can sift through the flood of information and discern what is helpful. Moreover, it helps us to live in hope amid uncertainty.
“Peter encourages us not to hold on to this hope just for ourselves, but to share it with others.”
Shared by Christine Gobius, National Director
Our world has been broken.
Yet we are woven together
as we face shared challenges.
