The Journey from Hopeless to Hopeful

Overshadowed as we are

by information laden clouds

containing evidence of unleashed evil

a heavy heart longs to hear stories of those

who have chosen to “be good for goodness’ sake.”

Overwhelmed as we are

by unimaginable atrocities

reported from across the globe

and on the streets of nearby towns

a quavering voice sings harmony to the prophet’s cry

“O that you would tear open the heavens and come down

so that the mountains would quake at your presence--”[i]

Overcome as we are

by demands to take our place

on one side or the other of dividing lines

etched by hatred and lies and unfounded fears

a troubled mind clings to a prophetic promise:

“For as the earth brings forth its shoots,

and as a garden causes what is sown in it to spring up,

so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise

to spring up before all nations.”[ii]

Overwrought as we are

by unrelenting waves of hopelessness

born of unkindness expressed in word and deed

our thirsty souls ache for the refreshment of still waters

and the Good News that restores hope:

“For Christ is coming nearer, redeeming us from sin.

Our broken lives will soon be healed.

God’s kingdom now breaks in.”[iii]

[i][i] Isaiah 64. 1
[ii] Isaiah 61. 11
[iii] Refrain from “For Christ is Coming Nearer,” A musical response for the Lighting of the Advent Wreath, Year B. Words: J.E. Thyren & W.G. Carter; Tune: Esperanza, W.G. Carter © Presbybop Music