This past Wednesday evening, we began a new midweek prayer series entitled “The Final Hope: Three Messages for an Anxious World,” written by Clifford Goldstein, a prolific and respected author within the Adventist community. This powerful series will continue through June 24 and promises not only to inform our minds, but also to inspire and strengthen our hearts for the days ahead.
How many times have we sung the beloved hymn, “We Have This Hope,” and felt our hearts stirred as we reached those triumphant words: “Hope in the coming of the Lord”? The Advent Hope stands at the very center of our faith as Seventh-day Adventist believers. Yet we must never forget that our hope is not rooted merely in an event, but in a Person—Jesus Christ Himself. All our hopes are built upon the Desire of Ages. Separate hope from Jesus, and hope loses its foundation; it becomes a house without a rock, a promise without certainty.
Over the past several weeks, our pastoral staff has stood beside grieving families as many within our church family have faced the painful loss of loved ones. The sorrow has been deep, and the tears have been real. Yet even in the midst of heartbreak, we have witnessed the sustaining power of Christ’s words: “Let not your hearts be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me…” In moments when human strength fails, the promises of Jesus still carry His people. Truly, “’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, just to take Him at His Word.”
And today, more than ever, we are living in a world racing toward chaos and uncertainty. Fear, anxiety, violence, division, and despair are increasing on every side. Hearts are failing for fear, and many are losing hope. But this is not the time for God’s people to grow weary or discouraged. This is the hour to lift up our heads, for our redemption draws near.
In a world that seems bent on destruction, I choose today—and every day—to trust in Jesus. Christ is my firm foundation, my unshakable hope, and my coming King. The Bible assures us that soon “all things will be made new.” Sickness, death, sorrow, pain, and separation will be swallowed up forever in the victory of Jesus Christ.
So let us not lose heart. Let us hold firmly to our faith, cling to the promises of God, and keep our eyes fixed upon eternity. And with the blessed hope burning brightly within our souls, may we echo the words of John the Revelator:
“Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”
Maranatha!
Pastor Glenn DeSilva