Hope is not mere optimism, or simply wishful thinking,
Not a fervent plea to keep one’s faith from sinking.
Hope is based on promises already pledged and given,
That we are loved by God and sins have been forgiven.
There’s nothing to be feared, we are joyfully accepted,
The heaven for which we hope, is rightfully expected.
Salvation has been promised, our hope is thus secure.
“Hope does not disappoint” God’s words are ever sure.
When other options fail, hope is our ray of light.
When we stumble in doubt, it’s our star in the dark of night.
Faith and Hope are seen to be, the two sides of a coin,
To operate effectively, they must securely join.
Then “possible” can overcome “impossible” in life,
The Holy Spirit guiding, through uncertainties and strife.
In times as challenging as these, where tragedies abound,
We’re called to give encouragement and spread new hope around.
So don’t regard your destiny with worry and anxiety,
But challenged by reality, see Hope as the best strategy!
Sr Una Rutledge, RNDM
Image: BBC Sky at Night Magazine