Hope of Israel…
And now, Lord, what do I hope in?
My expectation is in You. Psalm 39:7 LSB
Hope is the most universal of all human possessions... the only good that is common to all men, those who have nothing else possess Hope still. Thales of Miletus
In this second week of December, the focus will turn to the word and idea of “hope”. The word “hope” has a different Biblical connation than it does in the general English language. Biblically, the word “hope” is a confident, faith-based certainty with an active expectation of God fulfilling His promises. It’s a strong peaceful assurance in contrast with everyday anticipation which is often less concrete.
Many Old Testament scriptures, such as Isaiah 42:1-9, encouraged Israel for the hope of a Savior. The verses often contained prophecies about the one coming to rescue Israel and make the nation a light to the Gentiles too. Israel had a history of often straying far from their faith, committing acts that were both earthly and spiritually wicked; these acts had tough consequences. So Israel often suffered under oppression and exile, yet Israel’s faithful held tight to the promises of God. Their hope was based on Scripture, yet their interpretation was based on their ideas of what that looked like in their culture and experience. They hoped for an earthly “king” and one who would save them from their earthly enemies. Yet God’s plan was much bigger than that.
Many modern nations are also shaped by hope. Indeed, the US Constitution is built on the hope of justice, peace, tranquility, general welfare, and liberty. Though the hope is still not fully met, many Americans still hold tightly to that hope. In contrast, developing countries often simply hope for an end of war, poverty, famine, or severe injustice. In December, much of the world looks to Christmas and hopes for even one day of peaceful rest.
This week, search the internet to find reliable world news that seems hopeful. You may have to look a bit, but there is good news out in the world even beyond the good news of the Gospel. Perhaps you will find an article about a cutting edge verifiable study that shows real progress in combatting a disease. Perhaps you will read about a new technique to mitigate some of the damage that humankind has done to the environment, the Creation that God has so generously entrusted us with. Perhaps it will be reading about a billionaire who is in the process of moving their earthly wealth into causes that support others less financially fortunate. Whatever you find, be sure to share it with someone else…because everyone needs hope!