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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Dear Rev. Graham: As a student at Arizona State, I’m studying the science of hope, with a concentration on how pop culture influences the masses, particularly in uncertain times. How does human philosophy square with the Bible’s view on hope? – H.P.

 

Dear H.P.: Hope is a gift. Have you ever taken hold of such a prize that leads you out of uncertainty into profound assurance? If so, you have possessed hope. When it arrives, despair departs. The word itself explodes with confidence in something greater than ourselves, and is not found in science, medicine, government, or technology. It is a grand gift that does not drain us of life but infuses us with lasting benefits that spring forth from its seemingly veiled treasures.

Hope is seen in a sprig that shoots up from the crevasse of a sun-dried rock, proving the water of life within. Hope is the first ray of sunshine that peeks above the horizon – without fail, every morning – telling us we can make it through. Hope is dispatched when the moon rises in the dark night foreshadowing that a new day will dawn. Hope swells within a sea-weary drifter when he spots a distant speck of a ship that grows larger with each passing wave. Hope is the cry of a newborn baby once bound, now free. The glow of hope is realized when the strike of a match and the whisper of its flame brings life to a room. Hope pierces the darkness.

The Bible says that Jesus is Earth’s only hope. He came to unlock the door of our souls to bring the light of salvation. The psalmist wrote, “My flesh also will rest in hope” (Psalm 16:9, NKJV). Hope brings comfort to our aching souls. It perseveres, persuades, prevails. Hope will accompany us through our uncertain tomorrows if we will receive, by faith, the God of hope.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)