When Hope Really Matters

When hope really matters. Life is full of hopes and dreams like the warm, fuzzy feelings of a Hallmark movie. But when death is near and you’re uncertain what’s next? That’s when the need for hope gets real. When it really matters.

Years ago, just before Christmas, my friend Ken shared some bad news. He had incurable cancer. No time frame was mentioned and there were medical measures to take. But even better, he and I believed in an Almighty God, the power of prayer, the miracle of divine healing.

As a young pastor, I offered encouraging words. But a question burned in my mind that I wanted to shout out loud.

WHY GOD? IT JUST ISN’T FAIR!

When hope really matters. When you intellectually reject hope you’re probably young and healthy.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (ESV, Romans 15:13)

I once attended a panel discussion that included an Evangelical Christian and an Atheist. It was a healthy, civil dialogue between two attractive, intelligent young people. Both presented reasonable arguments supporting their position and the debate, though passionate, was respectful. There was humor, good natured teasing, and great interaction. It was an engaging encounter that was intellectually stimulating. But that’s all it was—intellectual.

It’s a different scene with people in the hospital facing life and death. Intellectualism is stripped away. Raw emotions are bare and honest. And regardless of religious convictions, prayer is always appreciated.

There are two categories. People who approach death with hope and confidence and people who don’t. Yes, there are varying levels of intensity in these feelings, differences in attitudes, and degrees in level of assurance. But there is a clear separation between the two.

I’ve been with people so confident and assured in their faith that they radiate joy. And seen uncertainty and fear in the eyes of those with none. You may shrug your shoulders with a cavalier attitude that rejects Christianity. Or embrace a busy lifestyle that doesn’t think about the end of life. But when you face the most profound moment of your life, it matters. A lot.

When hope really matters. Jesus Christ provides a reason for it.

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faithinto this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (ESV, Romans 5:1-2)

Scripture explains the reason we need hope. Because sin disqualifies us from the presence of a holy God. But God sent Jesus to die as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. And by confessing our sins to Jesus and asking him to be our Lord and Savior, we are forgiven of sin.

Many of the people I encounter with uncertain or no hope don’t understand this idea or simply reject it. And hang on to the idea you earn your way to heaven through personal merit. They say things like, “I’ve tried to live a good life. I’ve tried to do the right things.” Honestly? They are often decent people who live good lives and do the right things.

Still, doubt nags at them like an unscratchable itch. Can they be sure all their good deeds will outweigh the bad on God’s cosmic scales of justice?

When hope really matters. God offers hope beyond wishful thinking

But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect. (ESV, 1 Peter 3:15)

Ken lost the fight against cancer, but I’m confident he is now fully healed and living joyously in heaven. For me, this makes Christian hope more than Pinocchio’s “When you wish Upon a Star.” Because it’s based on the truth of God’s word.

Ultimately, of course, it requires a step of faith. But it’s not blind faith or warm and fuzzy, hopeful feelings. However, a confident, unshakeable hope in Jesus Christ. I’ve seen this faith demonstrated over and over at the bedside of believers living their last moments. The confidence, joy, and peace as they prepare to step into eternity. But I’ve also witnessed the uncertainty and absolute terror in the eyes of those with no hope.

And it’s heartbreaking. Because that is when we all want hope. And when it really matters.

About Chip Tudor:

Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview. This blog is originally published here.