Dec. 4, 2010
 
DEVOTION: Hope
 
By Beth Bondurant
 
Hope for the world; hope for us all. This is what we are looking for during this first week of Advent in preparation for celebrating GOD WITH US.
 
Hope... in the midst of sadness... in our day to day struggles to find God's "peace that passes all understanding".
 
Hope... in the midst of the fire and smoke that sizzles in the dryness of creation... not only the trees and growing goodness of nature... but in our lives as well.
 
Hope... in the midst of broken relationships that tear individuals apart... and sever the ties of family and friends... of communities and countries.
 
Hope... in the midst of suffering that is all too prevalent... no respecter of age... time, person or place.
 
Hope in the midst of doubt that keeps our hearts and minds churning in fear.
 
Hope... in the midst of change... when one day wipes out tomorrow's anticipation.
 
Hope... for righteousness and justice... for forgiveness and peace when we wander too far from faith... from the love of God's way in living with one another.
 
"The life-giving Spirit of God will hover over us, the Spirit that brings wisdom and understanding, the Spirit that gives direction and builds strength, the Spirit that instills knowledge and Fear-of-God."
 
O God! I know you are with me... but some days I truly long for the hope you promise. Life just seems so unfair... so harsh for some... so hopeless for others. I know you love me even when I question WHY! I know your strength and grace are never ceasing... but my mind and spirit seem too frail to grasp the expectancy of your love. Draw near to me so that I can share the truth of Your life giving Spirit that hovers around us all... bringing to all of life... healing HOPE.