Hope Abounds

Hope is in the air this spring, and I’m not even talking about the rebirth of nature.

Hope abounds where there is promise for the future. This spring, graduates are looking ahead to new careers, or furthering their education in new academic endeavors. Schools are hosting concerts, art shows, award ceremonies, and field days. These events showcase the students’ hard work, and demonstrate clearly how far the students have come in the past year. This perspective gives the students hope for more growth in the future.

Think back to the joy you felt when you could say, “I get it!” or “I did it!” Your teachers and coaches celebrated with you when they saw the sparkle in your eyes.

“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know what is the hope that belongs to His call…” –Ephesians 1:18

In a similar way, when Paul wrote to the Ephesians, he wanted his readers – including YOU – to ‘get it’ – to know what is the hope for your future. 

What do you have to hope for? You are God’s beloved child; He lives in you. So no matter your age, gender, occupation, skills, or handicaps, God has called you to show His love to this world and be with Him forever in the next. 

“But I’m not a preacher,” you may say. “I don’t work in a church or do anything special. My job is just an ordinary one.”

God asks you to use your particular personality and skill set; that’s why He gave them to you. He is less concerned about how many diplomas you’ve earned and more interested in how you’ve loved your coworkers, friends, and family. Any time and all the time, anywhere and everywhere, God wants you to show His love in and through your work, your home, and your community.

Maybe you don’t think of it much, but take a moment to consider the many ways you already share love and friendship with the people around you. Open your eyes to how He has blessed you already, and blessed others through you.

Take hold of the hope of His promise: You are His beloved child. He will be with you ‘to the end of the age’ (Matthew 28:20), always and everywhere, guiding you and showing you how you can bring His love to the people around you. 

“Lord, thank You for allowing me to hope in Your presence always in my life.”

Thank you for reading my reflection. © 2023 Gina Bedell     Comments are always welcome! 

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p.s.

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