The Truth of Hope Quiets My Soul …
Today’s post on “Hope” reminds me of words Jesus spoke in his Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew 6:26-30. These verses are accompanied by photos my husband took during a recent getaway to Montana. I “hope” they will bless you …
“See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin … If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you …?
Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
Ever since I came close to losing my life in an automobile accident when I was in my 20’s, I have never felt one pang of fear about dying. I cannot say I had a “near-death” experience, but the few recollections I have during a several-week time following the accident resurrect memories filled with a sense of peace and well-being. My best description is feeling as if I were encased in a “bubble of kindness.”
That “bubble” burst a few months later. From then on, I began facing, in real time, how my injuries had changed my life physically, emotionally, relationally, and even spiritually. Processing the trauma, loss, and grief has taken many years—and occasionally, another layer which needs healing surfaces.
Even though I don’t fear death, I realized a few months ago some nagging fear lurked around the perimeter of my soul related to an aging issue which had become reality for several friends.
During the past several years, I have been studying and practicing the spiritual discipline of self-awareness which leads to godly discernment. I now know negative emotions such as fear are not only inconveniences but also opportunities to become curious and explore. When they emerge, it seems the best thing for me to do is begin by praying something like, “Holy Spirit, I can’t figure out what is going on, but will you please help me discover what is happening in my soul.” This prayer has taught me there is an active Divine Spirit who is more than willing to show up. When I tell someone, “the Holy Spirit is trustworthy,” this declaration is more than theological belief but a reality I have learned by getting down-and-dirty in some very real spiritual trenches.
My friend and former pastor, Terry Gurno, has been in the “trenches” for several years. As a result of his compelling story, Terry isolated what he calls “unyielding hope” as an essential element to living life to the fullest despite circumstances. A masterful communicator, Terry shares his journey with candor and kindness. (Check him out on https://www.terrygurno.com)
Recently, I communicated with Terry about a connection I thought might be helpful, and in my email, I shared a bit of my story about the realization of my fear and how his message of hope resonates. I told Terry when I brought fearful thoughts to God, “taking them captive” (See 2 Corinthians 10:3-5), what I discovered is that the truth of hope quiets my soul.
Each of our stories is unique. Perhaps the story you are currently living in is filled with menacing realities or frightening thoughts. My prayer for you is that in some way the words I have written will resonate and the truth of hope that quiets will permeate your soul.
Blessings on your journey,
