In the Letter to the Hebrews (chapter 6), the author says that our hope is “an anchor of the soul, sure and firm, which reaches into the interior behind the veil, where Jesus has entered on our behalf as forerunner, becoming high priest forever.”
Let’s remember that Christian hope is not simply optimism; it is much more. It is rooted in the new life we have received in Jesus Christ. St. Paul tells us that hope will not disappoint us, because God’s love was poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit at our Baptism (Romans 5, 5 and elsewhere). This hope enables us to trust in Christ’s promises, to trust in the power of His love, His forgiveness, and His friendship. All of these open the door to new life. So, whenever we experience a problem, a setback, or a failure, we are to anchor our hearts in Christ’s promises, for they have the power to turn death into life.
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For reflection: It has been said that “hope is a path taken with others.” We are called to share the journey of life. An African proverb says: “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go with others.” Isolation will never generate hope; but closeness to others and encounters with others will.
