“For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” Romans 15:4 NASB

Dan and I have developed some incredible systems that, somehow, with the Lord’s help, just work! One of these systems is our monthly newsletter. I have been doing a monthly newsletter since 1985. I believe we have only missed twice, once during the birth of our son in 1991 and the other because, (gasp) we both forgot!!

Our current system is this: God gives Dan the title, usually two words. Then, amazingly, without much difficulty, I sit down and write the main article.

Only this month, even though I LOVED the title, “Hope Rising,” I could not seem to get my heart to find its footing for the words. It has been somewhat of a crushing month for me, personally: Dad has been put on home hospice, and although we are SO grateful for the added help that brings to us, the sadness of it being that time keeps me close to tears. I feel very fragile when I speak about it to anyone. Also, my dear mother, who has my heart always, has not been able to settle here, and so it has been decided that she will be returning to South Bend to live in her home once again, this time with her 2 great grandsons who have promised to take care of her and look after her. She is very physically fit and this move, we are hoping will bring her some measure of peace and happiness.

I think about the words, “Hope Rising,” and this thought occurs to me: We do not need hope when all is perfect. We do not need hope when then sun is shining and there are no storms raging. The time for hope is when all seems lost. When pain and sorrow are knocking insistently at the doors of our hearts, demanding to be let in to wreak havoc.

In those moments, Hope is the answer, arising, like a miracle, to chase away the darkness. Hope shines against the lies of the enemy who batters us with sorrow and regrets. In the dark stormy night, hope rises.

The Holy Spirit spoke to me today about Hope. My hope is in Christ alone. My hope RESTS securely in His love for me. Like a bulwark that will not fail.

And then the Lord also reminded me that Hope is the first cousin of Joy. And my heart exploded with a smile. YES. Christ is in me, the Hope of Glory, and in His presence is fullness of joy. This is my way forward. This is your way forward. Always place your hope upon Him. Our hope can rest, securely, upon Him.

~ Debbie Ecker