Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. – Romans 12:12
Hope is defined in the Oxford Languages dictionary as “a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen”. That feeling of expectation can most certainly bring joy as we anticipate the arrival of a healthy child or grandchild – or picture a beautiful vacation that we’ve planned for months. Most recently for me, I’ve looked forward with great anticipation to the beginning of my retirement. Hope abounds as we plan out much desired milestones in our lives!
If only life always went as planned. If only every hope became a reality. I was reminded of this as I sat with my dad this evening at a local rehab center. He has Parkinson’s disease and is working on skills that he lost when he recently fell. His ability to return home hinges on regaining those skills. He is hoping to return to the home he’s lived in for 56 years. We are all hoping that for him while trying to prepare him for other options. How the next weeks play out is a big unknown.
Hope brings with it an element of anxiety. After all, what we are hoping for hasn’t arrived yet – and maybe it won’t. Life can be harsh that way. So while we wait, and hope, our scripture reminds us to be patient and to pray. I’m not sure patience ever comes without prayer! God will be with us in the waiting.
Are you in a waiting pattern as you hope for a future event? In the quiet space of waiting, draw on the collective strength of the Holy Spirit and your church family and friends. Hope, patience, prayer … and community. Four words to live by!
Blessings,
Diana Kongkeattikul
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