Keep Living in Hope

by Cindy Hoffmann

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” –1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

These are the verses that have taken us (Greg and me) through each day of 2020-2021 and now into 2022; for without this anchor and this heart attitude, our days would have been fearful and without purpose. But as we remain anchored in the truth of God’s will for us to rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, we are able to see the evidence of God’s faithfulness to us and His unconditional love that never runs out, gives up on us, or fails.

Life has definitely been different for the past two years and there is a whole lot of ‘new normal’ we are observing in the world around us. Some days I have become weary with all I need to think about as I interact with clients, store clerks, and friends. But then I am drawn back to the very truth in Scripture; that God is still in control, He is sovereign, and “He is the same yesterday, today and forever.” Phew! That brings me so much hope and calmness.

As we gathered at the holidays with all of our growing family (now 20 of us), I sensed that even the grandkids are struggling with all of the changes that they are observing, feeling, and seeing in their schools and at church. This was evidenced when one of our youngest granddaughters didn’t miss a beat when she saw her grandma and papa hugging…each time, she dropped what she was doing, ran over, and wrapped her little arms around us as we then enjoyed a big three-way hug. This happened at least four times during her visit and each time it surprised and delighted our hearts. And then later in our time together, this same little one, out of the blue asked, “Grandma and Papa, will you ever move from this house?” I could see in her eyes and sense from her heart that she really wanted to hear: “We will never leave and this home will always be here for you.” She wanted to make sure life would stay the same, especially the security of the safe haven of Grandma and Papa’s home. What I could honestly say wholeheartedly is Grandma and Papa will always love you…No Matter What. Life circumstances are changeable; each day confronts us with new challenges and sometimes heartaches. However, here is the big promise:

“I will never leave you or forsake you,” and “I am with you always to the end of the age” —Jesus. These promises are for each season of our lives, each adversity we face, and for each joy we encounter as we each strive to be a light in a dark world.

The babe that came to us in Bethlehem is still the Lord of Lords and King of Kings. He continues to reign over this very mixed-up world and for this I am thankful and in Him I (we) put our trust.

“And high in the heavens, God whispered, ‘My Son, you’ll bring hope to the world and love everyone.’” — ‘Twas the Evening of Christmas, Glenys Nellist.

Keep living in this Hope.