The Christian's Hope

Hope painting by Frederick Watts

We do not want you to ... grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13).

The word "hope" is used to describe various perceptions. We say, "I hope the price of gold will go up"; or "My husband is sick, I hope he will be better soon." In these cases hope expresses our everyday expectations. However, it also has another meaning: in the Tate Art Gallery in London hangs a striking painting by Frederick Watts. The title of the painting is "Hope". A beautiful woman is sitting on the globe. She is blindfolded and in her hand she holds a lute. All but one of the strings is broken. The woman sits bent forward touching the one string with her finger, listening. She is filled with hope – believing the best in the worst possible circumstances. As long as Christian hope is alive, life cannot break us; we will not go down under the weight of our problems and afflictions. We know that God is able to make the best of the worst. To experience comfort in adverse circumstances, know this: where Christian hope exists, no night is too dark, loneliness is not as painful and fear is less terrifying. Christian hope is optimism based on God's omnipotence. It is having faith in the future that fills your heart with joy when it feels like breaking. Hope sings along with Shelley that at the height of winter – spring is around the corner! It is hope that gives us an invincible spirit. It is not from ourselves. That is why Paul says, "Christ in you, the hope of glory" (Col. 1:27). This sinful world only knows a hopeless end; the Christian knows an endless hope!

Word that became flesh, thank You that Your Holy Word always brings hope when hopelessness threatens. Amen.

Painting by Frederick Watts.