One of the reasons I like hiking so much is because you know as you move along a trail there’s more ahead. It makes me hope for the next bend in the trail. Recently I hiked with my niece Tasha in Phoenix, Arizona. We traversed smooth, sandy paths and sharp-edged trails. We even climbed over 4′ boulders on our way to the summit of a mountain. Sometimes a curve on the mountain trail displayed a vista view of the valley below. Other times we’d see ‘The World’s Tallest Cactus,’ (in my opinion), or the dramatic incline of the trail ahead. Continually, we relished in the anticipation of seeing something amazing.
The Wise Men of old must have felt the same way. They knew there was more ahead. Seeing the star in the east and hearing about a baby that would be King of the Jews, they went in search of Him. Indeed, “…they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.” (Matthew 2:9-10, ESV)
We also have hope of more to come. Although the world is in a turbulent state, we have the assurance of another world that looks quite different. The weeks leading up to Christmas are a good reminder that everything changed when love entered the world at Jesus’ birth. So this Advent season, may we be blessed with abundant hope. “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13, NASB)
Things to do today:
- Reflect on the real gift of Christmas: Jesus coming into the world.
- Listen to this song: Hope in Front of Me (Danney Gokey)
As I sit in this dr’s office with the results of my mri just moments away. I have hope for what’s around the bend. Thanks Dora.
My prayers are with you. I myself am a ‘prisoner of hope.’ Hope has a way of making the things we face get a little smaller.