Hope is the joyful expectation that something good is about to happen.  I couldn’t help thinking about hope while sitting at a graduation party tonight while numerous conversations played around me.  They were filled with plans of the future, loaded with lofty goals and big dreams.  All the seniors were looking ahead, making plans to find their place in this great big world.  The theme throughout the party: an expectation of a bright and exciting future.  God couldn’t agree more.  “‘For I know the plans I have for you’, declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you hope and a future.'” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Here’s good news: God planned for each of us to have hope!  Even on the tough days, we can keep hoping.  “But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His unfailing love.  We wait in hope for the Lord; He is our help and our shield.  In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His holy name.  May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” (Psalm 33:18, 20-22) The beauty of being a child of God is knowing He hears us when we pray.  Therefore, we can be flooded with hope!  “Lord, hear me as I pray; pay attention to my groaning… Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord.  Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.“ (Psalm 5:1-3) Just like the seniors, we can let go of the past and grab onto a bright and exciting future.   Furthermore, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13)