By: Shams Siddiqi

The world is a painful place. Just look at the news where poverty, racism, bloodshed, and suffering are the norm. However, even amidst this pain there is reason to hope.

In this season of Advent I am reminded of the hope of Jesus’ return. Revelations 21:1-4 speaks about the future arrival of God’s Kingdom. This is a reminder that we are in the period of time where the Kingdom has arrived but not in its fullness. God reveals His Kingdom in so many ways, whether through the smiling faces on campus or by serving in ministries like Deedz. I also see hope in God’s creation through the beauty of the changing leaves and the hearts of His people. We are living embodiments of God’s present Kingdom and hope in this broken world.

It is because of these things that I am encouraged to continue to hope no matter how bad the world appears. As John says, “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4 ESV).

For your reflection:

1) How is God growing hope in you in this season?

2) How might you share this with someone else?