Hope

Belief in the future, confidence, and trust are all words which describe “hope”.  Without hope, nothing moves forward.  Without hope everything appears to spiral into a cynical self-consuming mire of despair.  Yet the reasons we discover hope, hold onto it, and ride with it are often mysterious and unknown. 
 
British politics is currently overwhelming.  Everywhere you look there is something about politics in the news, print, or invading casual conversation.  Perhaps it is because the process doesn’t come along very often.  Ironically I don’t find many who “believe” anyone.  I’m sure the dedicated followers are out there, however I seem to meet people filled with doubts, wonder, and genuine confusion.  It is as if real, grounded, and serious hope is missing from the equation.  Even if I could vote, I am not sure “who” I believe would be the bearer of hope for the future of this country.
 
Cynics exist in all cultures, stations in life, and locations.  It is as if “we” are finally seeing through the fa?ade and graffiti to see life as it really is.  It seems as if hope has gone on vacation, or at least moved underground for awhile.  Perhaps this is because nothing leaders promise will happen does.  If only one principle or value promised actually materialized!  I look at the party in power and I find a string of broken promises.  I look at the challengers and I find a string of hallow promises; even the faithful are not really sure they will happen.
 
In contrast Jesus gave us a view of life filled with compassion, mercy, and love.  He also talked of how evil would fight the process at every step.  His confidence is echoed in his reminder; “I've told you this ahead of time, before it happens, so that when it does happen, the confirmation will deepen your belief in me.”  (John 14.29)  I find myself looking at my history, seeing how those principles and values bring happiness and beauty.  I hold onto the gift of hope. 
 
Look at your own history.  Embedded in it is hope.