In a world where daily news often brings more despair than joy, finding a source of hope can seem elusive. The challenges of modern life, with wars, lies, and widespread injustices, often lead to a pervasive sense of numbness. Yet, despite the darkness, one question persists: what are we living for without hope?
Hope serves a vital purpose, acting as the bridge between mere existence and a fulfilling life. For Christians, this hope is personified in Jesus Christ.
What Makes Jesus Central?
The Gospel story might be familiar, but it prompts a crucial question: Do you believe Jesus is the Son of God who lived sinlessly, died, and resurrected to offer salvation? If you do, then it becomes clear why Jesus is central to hope. John 3:16 captures this essence: “God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Through Jesus, death transforms into an entry point to eternity with God.
Embracing Hopeful Living
The Kingdom of God is already present on Earth through Christ (Luke 17:20-21). Believers are not just saved from something but are saved for a purpose: to engage with the world’s brokenness. Being transformed by the Holy Spirit, Christians are called to be lights in the darkness, spreading hope (1 Peter 1:3-4, 2 Corinthians 3:18; Matthew 5:13-16; 2 Corinthians 5:20). The message of restoration is not just awaited, but shared (Romans 8:19-21).
1 Peter 3:15 encourages believers to, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” This hope should inspire change in the world.
The Interplay of Faith, Hope, and Love
Faith and love are integral to sustaining hope. As Paul notes in 1 Corinthians 13:13, “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” Jesus’ sacrifice was anchored in the Father’s love, a love that conquers death and envisions a restored world.
Hope Defined
Hope is not mere optimism but is grounded in the truth of the Word of God. By engaging with scripture, believers renew their hope, drawing strength and joy from God’s promises (Romans 15:4; Romans 10:17; Lamentations 3:22-23; Isaiah 40:31). This hope remains steadfast because “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever,” (Hebrews 13:8) and “does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us” (Romans 5:5).
In a memorable moment from the TV series, The Sandman, hope is portrayed as more powerful than anti-life. Hope is a life-giver, a miracle worker, and a heart transformer. It is the antidote to becoming numb. Jesus embodies this hope.
Will you choose hope today?
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
