Now what? Hope!

It’s the end of the year, a time in which many look back and ask “how’d I do?”  There’s nothing wrong with a thoughtful review of one’s accomplishments – or lack thereof.  But it’s equally important to take stock of the quality of one’s hope.  If it’s small, or even missing, it’s time to find and expand it.  For hope is fundamental to your progress.

Christmas time is often called the season of hope for it reminds us of Immanuel, God’s promise to be with us.  Just because the holiday is now over, there’s no reason to think hope is also gone. Immanuel is forever!

Jesus said of himself, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”  (John 14:6)  He was describing the action of Immanuel or the Christ, which guarantees ready access to God at all times, even today.  This holy promise never lapses, never picks and chooses who will benefit by it.  Just as it enabled Jesus to bless all who came to him for healing and salvation, so it continues to work today.  The Apostle Paul explained it this way: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”  (Phil 4:13)  That Christlike strength is available to all.

Mary Baker Eddy, a 19th century theologian who founded the religion to which this website is devoted wrote “The fact that Truth overcomes both disease and sin reassures depressed hope.” (Science and Health p. 420)  Imagine that: the solid presence of Immanuel lifting you and me out of all the ills that flesh is heir to.  That’s certainly worth hoping for!

Let us go forward then, claiming a reason for hope and trusting the everpresence of the Christ to reward that expectation.

May your new year be hopeful!

Melissa Hayden is a Christian Science practitioner in Salem, OR. You can find more information and additional articles at this link.  If you like what you’re reading, click the “add me” button.