Anticipation and Hope
Anticipation. It means to expect, look forward to or to hope. However, the more I reflect on this definition I realize that for many people, anticipation can bring a feeling of dread or concern rather than hope. I wonder what your outlook is this morning? As you head into 2022, do you anticipate this upcoming year to be better or worse than the year before?
According to a recent report from Pew Research, 78% of Americans say they are dissatisfied with the way things are going in the country. Majorities say they are “fearful” (62%) and “angry” (55%) when thinking about the state of the country. The ever present concerns with the pandemic are a large reason why people feel this level of dissatisfaction. The political strife, economic concerns and cultural wars don’t help. Interestingly enough, the statistic that could be considered to be the most surprising was that even though there is such a high level of dissatisfaction with the way things are, 61% of Americans believe 2022 will be better than 2021. Their anticipation for what lies ahead is actually hopeful. What is yours?
The common expression we hear often refers to those who see life as a glass that is either half-empty or half-full. The pessimist, the saying goes, would see a glass that is half-empty. The optimist, however, sees the glass as half-full. Clearly, both vantage points are accurate. Both statements could be considered to be true. The difference is perspective and attitude. One is hopeful. One is not. What is yours?
As God’s renewed people we need to embody hope. Our anticipation for what lies ahead should always be colored by hopeful expectation and optimism. The key, is understanding the anchor of that hope. Our hope should not be tethered to earthly conditions. Our hope is not for a booming economy, a subsiding pandemic and political peace. While all those things would be welcomed developments in our country, they are not the source of hope for a Renewed Life. Our hope is in Jesus. Our hope is in His return. Our hope is in the new heaven and the new earth. Our hope rests in knowing that our God is at work, even now, as the day approaches. Our hope rests in knowing that God will sustain us.
That was the main point of emphasis for us yesterday. To cast our cares on God and to trust that He will sustain us. This is the avenue to hopeful anticipation. That we can take our present day concerns and throw them upon God. Our job is to place our faith in God’s promise to sustain us no matter what our circumstances may look like on this world. If we can do this, then we will be a people who can not only enjoy our present moments, but look to the days ahead with hopeful anticipation. Let’s join together today, and anticipate the good things of God. - Jerimiah Smith, Pastor
1 Comments
Thank you for this very timely message! One God has given at this specific time.!