i hope so
Grace reigns "by way of justice leading to eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord." —Romans 5:21
Christians have more reason to be hopeful than any people who have ever lived. We are not waiting to be saved; Jesus has already saved us (see Ti 3:5). We are no longer afraid of death (Ps 23:4, KJV), for Jesus has risen and death has lost its sting (1 Cor 15:55). "Death is swallowed up in victory" (1 Cor 15:54). Jesus has won the irreversible and final victory. He is seated on His throne, and He is merely waiting for His enemies to be placed beneath His feet (Heb 10:12-13).
Therefore, we who are disciples of Jesus Christ are a people of hope. Although we notice "the increase of sin" (Rm 5:20), we are certain by faith that "grace has far surpassed" sin's increase (Rm 5:20). "In hope we were saved" (Rm 8:24), and "this hope will not leave us disappointed, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to us" (Rm 5:5). "Should anyone ask you the reason for this hope of yours, be ever ready to reply" (1 Pt 3:15).
Prayer: Father, make me a beacon of hope. Give me "a future full of hope" (Jer 29:11).
Promise: "It will go well with those servants whom the master finds wide-awake on his return. I tell you, he will put on an apron, seat them at table, and proceed to wait on them." —Lk 12:37
Praise: St. John, having a reason for hope, was known for his cheerfulness as he preached untiringly to strengthen others and fight heresy.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape on Hope on audio AV 70-1 or video V-70.)
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Robert A. Stricker, May 8, 2001
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, May 18, 2001