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In the second reading for today it states, “Brothers and sisters, whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have HOPE.” That word ‘HOPE’ seems to be what we need to have in these difficult days, in the days leading up to Christmas when we celebrate the birth of Jesus.  To be a person who lives HOPE in life, it is likely that one has had to live through difficult times.  Also, it is likely that one sees possibilities in HOPE in the challenges faced in life, has been shaped by many challenges, setbacks or failures, yet has come through it to be a witness of HOPE to others.  HOPE gives people a reason to continue fighting and believing that their current circumstances will improve, despite the unpredictable nature of human existence.

Pope Francis has said, “Hope never disappoints, hope goes not alone, but together — together with our brothers and sisters, those of other Christian denominations, together with the believers of other religions, together with the weakest.  The world goes on thanks to the vision of many people who created an opening, who built bridges, who dreamed and believed, even when they heard words of derision around them.  Live, love, believe, hope and, with God’s grace, never despair.”

Preparing for this reflection, I found this that I’d like to share, ‘HOPE’ by the Christophers.

Hope looks for the good in people
instead of harping on the worst.
Opens doors where despair closes them.
Discovers what can be done
instead of grumbling about what cannot.
“Lights a candle” instead of cursing the darkness.
Regards problems, small or large, as opportunities.
Cherishes no illusions , nor does it yield cynicism.
Sets big goals and is not frustrated
by repeated difficulties or setbacks.
Accepts misunderstanding as the price
for serving the greater good of others.
Is a good loser because
it has the divine assurance of victory.

As we prepare for Christmas on this Second Sunday of Advent, let us remember that HOPE fuels our discipline, commitment, and resolve.  

Let us reflect on these words by Henri Nouwen:

Hope means to keep living amid desperation
and to keep humming in the darkness,
Hope is knowing that there is love.
It is trust in tomorrow.
It is falling asleep and waking again
when the sun rises.
In the midst of a gale at sea,
it is to discover land.
In the eyes
of another
it is to see
that you
are understood…
As long as there is still Hope
There will also be prayer…
And you will be held
in God’s hands.