Scripture reading
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.
–2 Corinthians 4:8-9
Thought of the Day
The Reverend William Sloane Coffin is a former pastor of Riverside Church in New York City. He is a long time champion for justice and peace. I just read an interview Dr. Coffin gave concerning his view on things that are happening in the world today. He was asked if he had any hope for the future. I love his answer.
“I think that hope reflects the state of our soul rather than the circumstances that surround our lives. So hope is not the equivalent of optimism. Its opposite is not pessimism but despair. So I’m always hopeful. Hope is about keeping the faith despite the evidence so that the evidence has a chance of changing.”
It is easy to look at things in the world today and get a feeling of hopelessness. It is sometimes easy for the circumstances that “surround” us to drive us crazy and we begin to lose faith and hope for the future. Dr. Coffin is a smart guy. Hope is not about things but about faith. Hope comes from us knowing of what can be instead of what is. Hope is what gives us the strength and power to change our circumstances. Never ever forget these words.
Prayer
Lord of us all. You give me hope. Amen.