What is Hope in Christianity?
Hope is a Person: Jesus
Hope is not just a feeling or a wish; it is embodied in the person of Jesus Christ. The sermon emphasized that our hope is anchored in Jesus, who came to fulfill God's promises and bring salvation to humanity. This Advent season, we are reminded that hope is not abstract but tangible and real in the life and work of Jesus.
Expecting Jesus to Act
Hope involves expecting Jesus to act in our lives and in the world. Psalm 130 teaches us to cry out to God from the depths of our struggles, trusting that He hears us and will respond. This expectation is not passive but active, as we look forward to Jesus' intervention in our circumstances.
Lessons from Psalm 130
Crying Out from the Depths
Psalm 130 begins with a cry for help from the depths of despair. Whether we are facing personal struggles or broader societal issues, we are encouraged to call out to God. This act of crying out is a demonstration of our trust in His ability to save and redeem us.
Full Pardon for Sins
The psalmist reminds us that God offers a full pardon for our sins. This forgiveness is not something we earn but a gift from God, allowing us to stand before Him with reverence and awe. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross assures us of this pardon, giving us hope for a restored relationship with God.
Waiting with Expectation
Hope is a way of waiting with expectation. The psalmist compares this waiting to watchmen waiting for the morning, a time of anticipation and certainty. As we wait for Jesus' return and His continued work in our lives, we do so with a confident expectation that He will act.
How Hope Transforms Us
Producing Joy
Holding on to hope transforms our waiting into joy. Romans 12:12 encourages us to be "joyful in hope," and Romans 15:13 speaks of the God of hope filling us with joy and peace. This joy is not dependent on our circumstances but on our relationship with Jesus.
Living in Obedience
Hope in Jesus leads us to live in obedience to His commands. Our lives become a testimony of His love and grace as we walk in His ways. This obedience is not about earning God's favor but responding to His forgiveness and love.
Life Application
Bringing Hope to Others
As followers of Jesus, we are called to be agents of hope in the world. This can be through acts of service, such as participating in community events like Toys for Taylor or supporting local ministries like Harvest House. By sharing the hope we have in Jesus, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those around us.
Reflecting on Our Hope
This week, take time to reflect on the hope you have in Jesus. Ask yourself:
- How can I actively wait for Jesus to act in my life?
- In what ways can I bring hope to those around me?
- How does the assurance of God's forgiveness shape my daily actions and attitudes?
Challenge for the Week
This week, challenge yourself to be a beacon of hope. Whether it's through a kind word, a generous act, or sharing your faith, let the hope of Jesus shine through you. Remember, hope is not just for us to hold onto but to share with the world.
Conclusion
As we journey through the Advent season, let us hold onto the hope we have in Jesus. He is our anchor, our solid rock, and our reason for joy. May this hope transform us and inspire us to bring light to those around us. Amen.