Journeying to Grace

In conversation, we naturally (perhaps even instinctively) offer casual but sincere wishes of hope. When we share ‘I hope you’re doing well’ or ‘I hope you find a job’ or ‘I hope you have a safe trip,’ we certainly mean it. Good intentions are behind these supportive well-wishes that we give and receive, but when the moment is larger or more challenging, hope is not just a kind, appropriate cliché. It is our mission. Through our faith, and because of our faith, it is the tangible, real action we take and offer to one another.

There is only one place to encounter the promise of this true hope, and we are tasked through our trust in God to bring His healing hope to those who need it most. When we encounter others (whether they are very familiar or less familiar to us) who find themselves in times of difficulty and feel surrounded only by their hurts, worries, or sufferings, let us be witnesses to the Hope of Christ for them.  Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. (Heb 10:23) When perhaps their faith is tested, their hearts are weary, and their strength is depleted, let us accompany them in Christ, help them open their hearts in faith, and be the encouragement that builds them up (1 Thes 5:11) in the strength and hope of our loving Lord. Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint. (Is 40:31)

When feeling discouraged and facing hardship, I’ve been advised ‘hang in there’ and ‘it’ll get better.’ Though I believe these ‘words of encouragement’ were meant to be supportive, alone they are empty to an aching heart seeking a path forward. When circumstances are beyond our control but heavy on our spirits, prayerfully turning together to our merciful God and His promise of hope is what we know, what we do, and how we heal. Our God of grace is beside us in hope and asks us to bring and share that hope with one another, especially when needed most. Let us pray we accept the invitations we are given to lift one another, accompany each other in Christ, and live our mission of hope.