Romans 15:13

Merriam Webster Dictionary defines hope as “to want something to happen or be true and think that it could happen or be true.”

We have developed a close relationship with hope through our marriage. Last Christmas was very special for us. It was our first Christmas as parents. For many years we found ourselves hoping God would bless us with a child. We wanted children so badly and the holidays made their absence even more pronounced. We would decorate and discuss how much joy a child would bring to our home especially during the holiday season. We would watch parents enjoy their children climbing on Santa’s lap or picking out a Christmas tree and we would hope. We have often turned to scripture through our journey and one verse that has helped and continues to guide us is Romans 15:13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” This Christmas we are blessed with two beautiful children. We continue to feel hope, but now it is for their health, happiness, and future. We have learned that hope evolves with our lives.

The Christmas season brings hope for many whether you are a child hoping for a special toy, someone hoping a loved one will return home soon, or a couple hoping for the blessing of a child. Our personal hopes may change from Christmas to Christmas, but as Christians we are able to hold onto the constant hope of God’s gift to us, his son. The Christmas season is about celebrating the birth of Jesus and we have hope for his return.