2ND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Hold fast to the hope that lies before us. 

The year 2020 presented some unique challenges for all of us: a global pandemic and disrupted plans, economic hardship, and for many, political and racial tensions. Any one of these things could have shaken us—not to mention any personal trials we may have faced or may still be facing.

In light of all that has happened and is still unfolding, this verse from today’s first reading (Hebrews 6:10-20) can encourage us: “Hold fast to the hope that lies before us” (Hebrews 6:18). As Christians, we can place our hope in the promise that one day we will be united with God in heaven. No illness, no financial loss, no disappointment or canceled plan or other kind of strife can thwart that promise. That’s the hope that the author of Hebrews held out to the early Christians, and that’s what he holds out to us as well. If we try our best to stay close to the Lord and follow his commands, our hope is sure and certain.

But how do we hold fast to hope? By hanging on and gritting our teeth through the difficulties? No! Our hope lies in the faithfulness of God. We can be confident that he will see us through every trial as we trust in him.

That’s not just a vague promise. God gives us three tangible sources of grace that can strengthen and renew our hope. In the Eucharist, Jesus becomes present to us, healing us, strengthening us, and nourishing us. In the Scriptures, the Lord teaches us who he is, how much he loves us, and the wonderful plans he has for us. And through our relationships, God blesses us with family, friends, and brothers and sisters in Christ who can provide us with the love and support we need to get through our trials. In all of these ways, we can experience a foretaste of heaven, and our hope grows stronger.

Life can be hard at times; we know what it’s like to feel hope slipping away. When that happens, don’t let yourself sink into frustration or despair. Jesus’ presence in the Eucharist, in Scripture, and in other people are the lifelines that God is throwing out to you. Take hold of them, and don’t let go!

“Lord, all of my hope is in you.”

Psalm 111:1-2, 4-5, 9-10
Mark 2:23-28
Hebrews 6:10-20

WORD AMONG US