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“The Lord is my portion, says my soul, “Therefore, I will hope in Him.” Lamentations 3:24

Absolutely love Christmas movies…even the ones when the ending is so predictable.  Best one I’ve seen so far was “I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day.”  While I was familiar with this song, I had no idea of the story behind the song. If you’ve watched the movie, you know the storyline well, but for those who haven’t seen it, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is the writer of this classic carol.

As the story unfolds a tragic fire in Henry’s home claims the life of his beloved wife.  No sugarcoating here – the reality of Henry’s deep grief and his wrestling with God is poignant and vivid.  As a 57 year old widowed father of six children, Henry later learns that his son has been injured in the war.  Sorrow upon sorrow, grief upon grief.    As Henry journeys through his pain, he writes the lyrics of this song reminding himself and the world that God is alive. Righteousness will prevail and despite his losses, all hope is not lost.

“Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: “God is not dead, nor does He sleep, For Christ is here; His Spirit near. Brings peace on earth, good will to men.

How does one traverse from deep sorrow to hope?  At a pivotal point in Henry’s life, his eyes lifted off his circumstances and refocused on the One who drew near to his broken heart (Psalm 34:18, Psalm 147:3).  Embracing the character of his God, Henry fully trusted God to carry him through this journey with a renewed hope – an expectation fueled with unshakeable confidence.

God’s presence (Emmanuel) feels ever so close in those moments when daily dependence draws us to Him.  God truly comforts us, guides us and carries us. It is the most wonderful time of the year when we allow Him to minister to our souls-laying down our burdens and grabbing hold of His hand. Believing, trusting and expecting God to transform our brokenness and sorrow for His divine glory.

As we move into the holiday season may we remember that His presence on that first Christmas morning really did bring peace, hope and goodwill to all.

And just in case life is weighing heavy on our hearts, here are some Hope infusers for our week ahead:

“But I will hope continually and will praise you yet more and more.” Psalm 71:14
“Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.”  Psalm 33:22
“For the needy shall not always be forgotten, and the hope of the poor shall not perish forever.” Psalm 9:18
“Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast love.” Psalm 33:18
“For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth.” Psalm 71:5
“I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I hope.”  Psalm 130:5
“You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.” Psalm 119:116
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” Romans 12:12
“Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.” 2 Thessalonians 2:16
Sweet reminders straight from the heart of our loving Heavenly Father.

“Father, thank You for drawing near and wrapping us up in Your everlasting Hope.  Help us to keep our eyes focused on You and rest in your sovereignty.”
For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life