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Hello St. John’s Family,
Labor Day has come and gone. All students have now returned to classes. A relaxed summer routine is shifting to a “normal” schedule for many of us. Football is returning, as the Eagles kick off their season tonight. The postseason is just around the corner for the Phillies. For many, this is a season of hope.
Fresh starts offer new possibilities, and new possibilities often point to hope. Think of how often we hear statements like:
I hope the school year starts well…
I hope my lunch period is with my friends… (this is a BIG deal for our young people!)
I hope I can now get into a groove at work…
I hope the Phillies finally figure out how to win in New York…
I hope the Eagles beat the Cowboys…
While that last one is pretty much a given, the other statements point to uncertainty regarding a desired outcome. Positive intentions and wishes are thus directed toward the situation or circumstance, with the idea of increasing the possibility of fulfilment. Reflection reveals how we do this all the time. I hope you have a good trip. I hope you’re feeling better soon. I hope the test results are negative. I hope this job will be the fresh start she needs. A sense of optimism is extended that will (hopefully) help facilitate the desired result - or at least signal our shared desire to see that result realized. Which begs the question: is that what hope really is? Is hope merely a flimsy optimism that’s only as strong as our personal fortitude and will? Is there more to hope than optimism and good vibes?
Over the next 4 weeks, we’ll be examining those questions in worship. We’ll reflect on examples from our world today and across scripture where people experienced hope. I believe a clear picture of hope emerges: one that is grounded not in our intentions or will, rather in an unshakeable trust that, despite all indications, odds, or data pointing otherwise, God will act to save.
This Sunday, we’ll gather to worship, praise, and commune with our Lord. In our 10:30 service, we’ll present Bibles to our children, so they’ll have their own personal Bible to read and study at home and in their Sunday School groups. During the message we’ll hear how an encounter between a prominent business consultant/researcher and a naval officer who spent nearly 8 years in the infamous “Hanoi Hilton” revealed a paradox that illustrates the difference between optimism and hope… and will see how followers of Christ have a sure foundation that anchors our hope. Check out Romans 5:1-5 and Luke 24:1-9, then join me in worship on Sunday!
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Brad
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