Hoping

Christmas is in full swing: trees are up and decorated, lights are on, wreaths are hung. Children’s programs are being planned and practiced. It’s (almost) universally agreed that it’s not too early for Christmas music. (For some it’s never too early). Amidst all the activity and decorating, Christmas inspires generosity and gratitude for the gift of Jesus. For some it’s a time of sorrow and reminders of loss. Perhaps more than any other theme or emotion though, Christmas is about hope. Here we are collectively, some hoping for presents, others for familial reconciliation, and others for simple joy. During advent, hope abounds. 

“So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God’s inner sanctuary. Jesus has already gone in there for us. He has become our eternal High Priest in the order of Melchizedek.”

Hebrews 6:18-20 NLT

We are right in hoping; the author of Hebrews reminds us of the promises of God that are an “anchor for our souls.” In The Message translation this anchor of hope is described as an “unbreakable spiritual lifeline.” How does the assurance of God’s faithfulness to keep His promises anchor a soul? An anchor keeps a ship planted in place, regardless of shifting currents. Similarly, hope in God is well placed hope, one that roots us in truth and keeps us still in His presence.

In the next chapter of Hebrews, the author describes how our hope in Jesus is a better hope than hoping in our ability to follow the rules: 

“On the one hand a former command is set aside because it is weak and useless, for the law made nothing perfect. On the other hand a better hope is introduced, through which we draw near to God.”

Hebrews 7:18-19 NET

In other words, following the rules doesn’t work because no one can follow all the rules perfectly. Instead, we have a new priest, one without end! One who offers a better hope. And, it is through this better hope — that Jesus paid the price for our sin once and for all and we are forgiven of all sin, past, current and future — that we are free to draw near to God. No matter what you are hoping for this advent, remember the One in whom our hope is firmly planted. This is the best hope of all.