Our reflection verse today emphasizes that hope is not a mere wish, but a perspective grounded in the reality of God’s kindness and acceptance. It suggests that even when people are disappointed in themselves, God is not, and that this inherent kindness is the foundation for our hope, especially during times of need. This perspective encourages people to turn to God for love and acceptance, rather than hiding from it, as God delights in them, not disappoints them.
- Hope grounded in reality: Hope not as a feeling or a wish, but as a perspective that must be based on a “sufficient reality”. In this context, that reality is God’s fundamental kindness.
- God’s acceptance: God accepts us, delights in us, and is eager to smile at us. This idea counteracts the human tendency to feel that God is disappointed in us, especially when we are disappointed in ourselves.
- Turning to God in need: Because of this inherent kindness, we are encouraged to turn to God when we are most in need of love and acceptance, rather than avoiding the one person who understands us completely.