In my blog, Remembering an Hour and Fifteen Minutes at Pearl, I described the attack on Pearl Harbor and some lessons I learned. Since writing it, I’ve been wondering how people felt when they heard the news — as well as a week later — and for years after.
Hope Forgotten
I can imagine there was terrible shock and anger. And fear and uncertainty about what would happen next.
And perhaps some felt the emotion I experienced when America declared war on Iraq.
I was overwhelmed with sorrow.
No outcries or sobbing or physical collapse from shock and terror.
But deep, quiet, soul-engulfing sorrow. Because I knew people were going to die in horrible, tragic ways. And their loved ones would experience the loss.
My breathing slowed and I had no desire to speak. I just wanted to be quiet. And I wanted the world to be quiet. And calm. And safe.
And I wanted to feel hope that somehow the war wouldn’t occur, or that it would end without any loss.
War isn’t the only event that can drain hope from people. Sickness, injury, loneliness, abuse, or the death of a loved one. Unfortunately, the list is long.
Hope Remembered
So along with remembering events that steal hope, I must remember what gives me hope.
Not the kind of hope that is false, thinking there will never be trouble in life.
But a hope that:
— Is rooted in the unending, ever-present, limitless goodness of God.
— Acknowledges Who God Is and takes Him at His Word.
— Recognizes events that prove He provides, heals, guides, and answers prayer.
— Is certain that the only chance for any good thing is the Source of Goodness Himself.
— Thanks God in all circumstances because hope knows He will turn everything for good and for His glory.
The deep, quiet, soul-engulfing hope that only the Source of Goodness gives.
Hope that brings quiet. And calm. And safety.
What helps you nurture hope?
Remembering Hope – What helps you nurture hope? Share on XJoni Vance is an award-winning author of fiction, essay, and poetry. She loves mystery, history, and how God reveals Himself every day.
May God reveal the mystery of His love in your life story.
This is the season of hope yet there is so much darkness in the world. But as believers, we know the Light of Jesus will overcome the darkness. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Thank you for reading and commenting, Katherine. I hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful Christmas and new year as well.
Resting in God and trusting Him nurtures my hope.
I agree, Jane. And I appreciate you sharing!
“We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed.” Titus 2:12-13 NLT
Thank you for reading and sharing, Phyllis. I appreciate your support.
Thank you, Joni. Yes, Gos is our hope.
Thanks, Tim. I appreciate you reading and commenting.
After weeping through the night, there will be joy in the morning!
Thank you for reading, and for the reminder from God’s Word. I appreciate your support, Tim.