Holding to Hope

 

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 10:11-25

“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess,

 for He who promised is faithful.”

Hebrews 10:23

We live in a world shaken by rumors of war, natural disasters, disease, and deep uncertainty. Many feel overwhelmed—yet this is exactly why this season of Advent matters. In troubled times, Hebrews calls us to a different posture: “Hold unswervingly to the hope we profess.” We cling to hope not because the world is stable, but because God is faithful. And like the Shema—“Hear, O Israel…”—God invites us to listen with the ears of our hearts. Are we paying attention? Do we have “ears to hear” His promise? Even now, God speaks of a renewed world and a creation restored. As Eugene Peterson says, “Hope is not about the odds; it’s about trusting the One who speaks the promise.” This hope steadying us comes from the God who never fails.

When life feels unstable, our instinct is often to turn inward. But Scripture urges us outward: “Consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Heb. 10:24). Waiting becomes meaningful when it is filled with compassion. As we listen for God’s voice, He also invites us to listen to one another—lifting burdens, offering encouragement, and practicing kindness. Peterson reminds us that real solitude is not escape from others but becoming “more deeply aware of them,” allowing God to shape our hearts so that love overflows. When we stay attentive—to God’s whisper and the needs around us—we join in God’s healing work.

Hebrews also reminds us that hope grows best in community: “Not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Heb. 10:25). We are not meant to carry hope alone. We need one another’s faith, prayers, and presence. The Shema returns to us here: Are we listening? Are we watching together for God’s renewed world? Every gathering, every shared prayer, every honest conversation helps us stay awake to hope. Waiting becomes lighter—and clearer—when we wait together, listening for His promise and strengthening one another until the Day of Christ.

Prayer 

Heavenly Father,

In a world filled with fear and uncertainty, give us ears to hear Your voice and hearts open to Your promise. Teach us to hold tightly to hope, to encourage one another toward love and good deeds, and to remain steady as we wait and watch together. Strengthen us with Your presence. 

Come, Lord Jesus. Amen.