Statement on Finding Hope in Difficult Times (04/26/'24) -Statement

Statement on Finding Hope in Difficult Times In a world often described as easy to live in, realities like those in San Francisco’s Tenderloin district starkly remind us of the profound depths of human despair where many have lost all hope. Reflecting on the wise words of Proverbs 13:12, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick," we understand that a lack of hope can deeply affect our mental and emotional well-being, leading to discouragement, depression, and hopelessness. The critical question arises: How do we find hope, and where should we look for it? While the journey is complex, the solution is rooted in our spiritual foundations—the hope that Christ provides. It is one thing to acknowledge Christ as our source of hope intellectually; it is entirely another to truly believe it in our hearts. This statement serves as an invitation to explore these profound questions further. We must engage in discussions and collective actions to seek and nurture hope, not only for ourselves but also for those around us who are trapped in the shadows of hopelessness. Together, we can embark on this vital journey towards rediscovering hope and strengthening our community. In a world often described as easy to live in, realities like those in San Francisco’s Tenderloin district starkly remind us of the profound depths of human despair where many have lost all hope. Reflecting on the wise words of Proverbs 13:12, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick," we understand that a lack of hope can deeply affect our mental and emotional well-being, leading to discouragement, depression, and hopelessness. The critical question arises: How do we find hope, and where should we look for it? While the journey is complex, the solution is rooted in our spiritual foundations—the hope that Christ provides. It is one thing to acknowledge Christ as our source of hope intellectually; it is entirely another to truly believe it in our hearts. This statement serves as an invitation to explore these profound questions further. We must engage in discussions and collective actions to seek and nurture hope, not only for ourselves but also for those around us who are trapped in the shadows of hopelessness. Together, we can embark on this vital journey towards rediscovering hope and strengthening our community. Pastor Steven G. Lee (April 26, 2024)