Hope Springs

     Truthfully, there are many disturbing things going on in our nation and world, and even in my life and the lives of people I love. As I perused my morning online news today, I was overwhelmed and actually closed the sites. So much violence going on right now. Is it just that we are able to receive more news, more quickly? I've got to start limiting my news "coverage." It's depressing.
      That's why I have to consistently read the scriptures. It is the place I find hope. If this physical life is all there is, we're toast! But the scripture says it's NOT all there is. I choose to believe that is true...why not? The other alternatives aren't so hot.
      Not long ago I listened to a radio program on the way home from work. A woman who described herself as an atheist, talked about her reasons for not believing in a "God-myth." She believes that after we die, there is nothing. At the end of her comments, she said, "I really wish I could believe."
      Sometimes people are like some of the early followers of Jesus, who frankly, made Him very frustrated. He said these strong words: "Stop doubting and believe!"
      I don't particularly enjoy cold winters, nor hot summers. But I love spring. And I'm thankful for the previous owner of my home, who planted lilacs all along the back fence of the property. As I sit at my desk, I'm watching them get ready to burst into flagrant colors. It's gone from hoping we have great blooms this year, to seeing them develop and change.
      Hope springs up in me too --- that this pain, suffering, and sadness is NOT ALL THERE IS! I choose to believe what He says. What have I got to lose? I cannot control life or death, so ... why not believe?