Hope

Stories of those that overcome the odds always seem exceptional and removed from whatever situation I am in.  I am not trying to distract from their appeal.  I am not minimizing the obstacles and difficulties that he or she has overcome.  I am simply observing that I do not always relate to the person walking a journey very different from my own.  What gives me hope is often found in the ordinary.
A few days ago, I walked by a tall weed with a friend.  In the main, we spoke of the need to trim the wandering strands that blocked the walkway.  There was a casual comment or two about the flowers, however the focus was on how one could control the outcome.  Normally the conversation would have ended there.  We would have pushed on, tackling the next challenge without lingering on the experience. 
Later that evening, I picked up an email with an incredible photograph.  It was a view of the weed that I never imagined!  The photograph reflected something already within my memory.  It captured colors and textures that were resting and making themselves at home in my soul.  Everything was familiar, yet it was a way of seeing the future that was completely new.  I had missed the obvious.  I had ignored the present.  I had missed an opportunity to embrace hope.
The good news is that we are in a relationship with a God that never makes this mistake.  In old times and new, God is here.  “God was right there with him, though-he not only rescued him from all his troubles but brought him to the attention of Pharaoh, king of Egypt.  He was so impressed with Joseph that he put him in charge of the whole country, including his own personal affairs.” (Acts 7.10)
God is engaged in your life and mine.  God's handiwork is all around us, especially in the ordinary of our lives.  Embedded in each example is a piece of hope.  Today is an opportunity to embrace God in an incredible range of forms, shapes, and experiences.