Starting grade school in the late 60’s, my impression of the word “Hope” reverberates from the Black Power Movement and phrases like, I Am Somebody, Say it Loud...I’m Black and I’m Proud, and Keep Hope Alive.

An even more prolific impact was church and messages laced with the importance of directing my confidence and expectations toward an immutable God.

John chapter 14 is filled with hope. Jesus’ words declare that He is the way, the truth, and the life (hope). He assures His disciples that in knowing Him, they experience God (hope).

In the midst of the disciple’s concern, Jesus' promise of a Helper and Comforter (The Holy Spirit) should've been enough to calm their fears. Jesus continues (hope).

Verse 23 adds an additional dose of God’s support and everlasting presence, "Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him" (hope).

Keep Hope Alive…

Hope is intangible. I can’t see it with my eyes or touch it with my hands. I must learn to feel it in my spirit.

The Bible teaches that God is a promise keeper and He promises to be with me always—to the end of the age. I believe that.

While I don’t expect life to be struggle-free I do expect God to be present in the good times and especially in the not so good times.

Anticipating God’s indwelling presence and trusting that He has my best interest in mind requires intention, practice, and consistency.

I continue to look to God and God continues to prove Himself faithful to me just as He was to those in the Bible.

While the Black Power slogans of the 70’s have left an unforgettable impression, the Word of God has carved a message within the depths of my soul—“Hope in the Lord".

I See ME As Hopeful…