When life is tough, among the most important needs we human beings have is hope for a better future. And, as the Apostle Peter wrote to suffering people in the first century, he wanted Jesus-followers to know that one of the gifts God gives his children is “a living hope.” The way the Bible speaks of hope is different from our usual usage. For us, hope is often uncertain. When we say, “I hope so,” we are unsure about whether the hope will be fulfilled. But, the hope we have as Christians is an absolute certainly because it is a hope promised by God, accomplished by the death and resurrection of Jesus, and guaranteed by the Holy Spirit. There is only one thing we need if we will rest in this hope, i.e., faith in God. We must trust God to keep his word.

We will probe the difference this God-promised hope makes in the midst of tough times this weekend. In preparation, I want you to consider the words of Hermann Lange, a German pastor who was imprisoned and eventually killed for his stance against Nazism. In a letter written to his family on the morning of his execution, he said:

When this letter comes to your hands, I shall no longer be among the living. The thing that has occupied our thoughts constantly for many months never leaving them free is now about to happen. If you ask me what state I am in, I can only answer I am, first, in a joyous mood and second, filled with great anticipation. Regarding the first, today means the end of all suffering and all earthly sorrow for me… As to the second, this day brings the greatest hour of my life. Everything that until now I have done, struggled for, and accomplished has at bottom been directed towards this one goal whose barrier I shall penetrate today… For me, believing will become seeing, hope will become possession, and I shall forever share in him who is love. Should I then not be filled with anticipation? What's it all going to be like? Those things which up to this time I've been committed to preach about, I shall now see. There shall be no more secrets nor tormenting puzzles. Today is the great day on which I return to the home of my Father. How could I fail to be excited and full of anticipation.

His testimony can be ours
To God’s glory,

Dr. Greg Waybright
Senior Pastor