“I hope he makes it there in time.”
“I hope I pass my final.”
“I hope the meeting goes well.”
Hope
The definition of it as a verb seems to have become more like “to wish for” these days, a statement of what I would like to come to pass, yet which is not really affected by my desire or words. It is a plea of “I hope so.”
I am not exactly sure how to translate this into a less-religious context. I do believe that human beings have power over their choices of how to think or respond to an event. Whatever our feelings are, we can train ourselves to respond differently, little by little over time. There is hope because the human mind and body have powerful, self-healing mechanisms. The power of positivity is real.
The definition of hope in the Judeo-Christian concept is more than a “wish” for something. Hope is actually more of a certainty or assuredness. One’s hope in God is a statement of faith that “God’s got this.” I still may have a preference for how something should work out, I still will pray for it because I want good in the world for all. My hope and belief is ultimately that overall good will transpire. It may not happen in the way that I want, but my heart need not be troubled, nor do I need to fear.
When Jesus was praying on the last night of his life he sweat blood with the intensity of his prayer. Perhaps he battled fear. He knew what was to come to pass, a brutal torture and crucifixion. He asked God to take it away, but immediately prayed “…Yet thy will be done.”
This morning something came to pass that I did not want. I prayed that it would not. It is the type of event that has in the past “derailed me.” But it is in God’s hands now. His will be done. His timing, His order, in His wisdom. Believing this, despite my disappointment I will fight against the usual fear — with His strength. I will persevere in prayer.
My hope is in Him.
My peace is through Him. And I do feel peace, even though it defies reason.
Suzy Cornflakes 