Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness. Desmond Tutu
Meditation: When we look at the darkness of our times: the hate, the apathy, the greed and the abuse of power, we could lose hope. And sometimes worst case scenarios cross our minds when we feel discouraged. Then we feel like losing hope for this planet, this country, even for humanity. What is it about us that we do not learn from history? What is it that we act so self-destructively and seem unable to see beyond ourselves? When it seems that all is lost, I try to look for those examples that show me that humanity is still reaching out to each other in empathy and care. I look for those light moments when the darkness of hate is overcome by mutual respect and openness. I follow those light testimonies that demonstrate compassion and self-less leadership. And then I hold on to those small light examples for dear life. I won’t allow my hopeless moments to throw me into despair. No, as long as I have those small lights of hope, which testify of God’s Spirit still being among us, I will hold onto the big hope that God has not given up on humanity yet. And so I won’t give up on it either.
Prayer: God of hope, thank You for those small lights. Those Spirit moments of hope, love, respect and empathy that I witness each day. Let me value them more, hold them carefully, as not to allow them to get destroyed by all the negative and dark news of the day. The dark is big and loud. The light is small and quiet. Come, Holy Spirit, with Your quiet presence. Light our way so we won’t miss the path You want to lead us on. And we are grateful for Your Light that sends us those small lights of hope along the way. Amen
The Lord is near to those who are discouraged; he saves those who have lost all hope. – Psalm 34:18
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