In these times of confusion, anxiety, and worry during the pandemic I came across this reflection today on HOPE.  As many of you know it is my word for the year 2020.  Little did I know that on January 1 when this word came to me in prayer as my word for the year, that I would so desperately need it.  Since that time it seems that the word HOPE has come to me in so many different writings, reflections, poems.  It is Providence providing me with just what I need at the time.  God be praised!  So I just wanted to share this reflection with you.  

“Hope is not a feeling, sentiment, or affect. It is not a starry-eyed assurance, cheery conviction, or buoyant confidence. Nor is it passive optimism that, despite the situation, bullishly predicts, “It’s all going to work out.” It is beyond security and peacefulness. Hope cannot be bought or taught. It can only be received and awakened. Saint Francis instinctively knew this when, seeking discernment before the San Damiano crucifix, he prayed, “And give me…certain hope….” The seed of hope is planted by God and celebrates the gratuity of grace. It is a gift, a blessing that strangely breaks ground and sprouts only during times of desperation, despair, despondency, and disaster—when the soul is parched.”

—from the book Soul Training with the Peace Prayer of Saint Francis
by Albert Haase, OFM  

So as we end the second week of Advent, I pray that HOPE has found you in your little corner of the world too and given you just what you need!

Happy Advent and blessings!

Barbara McMullen, CDP