My Hope

By Doug Talley

Though I practice physical distancing, wash my hands often and religiously wear a mask, ultimately, my hope is not in CDC protocols.

Though I pray often and with fervent faith, ultimately my hope is not in circumstances and whether or not they turn out favorably.

Though I am curious to see the Jupiter – Saturn eclipse that some think may have been the Bethlehem star, ultimately my hope is not in astronomy.

Though I have shrunk my social bubble and may not even be able to see loved ones this Christmas, ultimately my hope is not in family or social gatherings.

Though I give liberally to charities, people in need, missionaries, and other expressions of God’s work, my hope is not in my good works.

Though I am grateful for the recently developed vaccines and will get one when my number is called, ultimately my hope is not in being inoculated from deadly diseases.

Though I miss not being able to gather in person with fellow believers, ultimately my hope is not in demanding the rights and privileges afforded to me as a U.S. citizen. 

Though I love the Christmas season and its festive celebrations, ultimately my hope is not in the activities and events of this season. 

My hope is in the person of Jesus Christ.  My hope is in his birth, sacrificial death and resurrection.  “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.”  My hope is in a person – the eternal person of Jesus.  He lives in me, and my heart’s desire is to live for Him.  

My hope gives me a still, inner confidence to face difficult and uncertain times.  My hope gives me direction to navigate the ever-changing landscape.  My hope helps me see a bigger picture than just today – than just what is in front of me.  My hope gives me a constant celebration in my heart that nothing in this world can realistically threaten.  My hope gives me the strength to press forward one day at a time.  My hope gives me joy – a deep, lasting joy that moves me to celebrate the True Gift of Christmas – Jesus.  Let’s celebrate together even if we are not together.  

Blessings,

Doug