This was a question that I was recently asked to consider, an excellent question. There are so many human-made, environmental (also influenced by humans), destructive and cruel happenings that hope feels like a stranger. Despite the many horrific situations, however, what gives me hope is God’s mercy, care and God’s goodness manifested in the lives of persons who are compassionate and loving, who work to bring about peace and equality. Most of these folks don’t make the news. I have also learned and experienced that optimism and hope are not the same. Optimism can more readily give way to pessimism. Hope is a much deeper virtue that calls one to a deeper relationship with God, with our communities and all peoples. The first Christians depicted hope as an anchor. This anchor is fastened to the word of God, spoken not only in word, but by deeds in Jesus’ name. With our eyes and hearts fixed on Jesus, together we become deeply anchored in God and, by our actions, manifest his tender mercy.
This past week my hope deepened. At the diocesan curia, approximately 300 persons listened attentively to a panel of excellent presenters discussing immigration and its complexities based on Catholic social teachings. Many of the participants responded by expressing an interest in learning more about the challenges that immigrants face and expressed a desire to find ways that they might help.
In today’s world what gives you reason for hope?
