Journal Entry 8/27 From Kristi

Hope seems to be a growing theme for all of us these days. Tragedy and loss press our hearts to grasp for stability. Yesterday we grieved the passing of a very close friend, and even as the call came in, I could hear Zachary processing the news and beginning to weep. We all were. And we still grieve.

But equally, after an evening of fellowship with the body of Christ, where the Word was taught and worship ascended, I heard something else in the voice of my kids: hope. Grief still, but mixed with it, hope. And with the hope, joy. Such a mystery how a grieving heart can process loss and hope at the same time. Yet this has been Zacs journey all along. Loss is of this physical world. Hope is eternal.

“We do not grieve as others do who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again…”

1 Thes. 4:13

So after the evening of worship, where God was magnified, the fruit of joy was also present. Because Jesus paid the Ultimate Loss, His willing death, yet rose again with the provision of eternal life to each of us who believe, Hope triumphs all.

Hope in death.

Hope in life with loss.

One more day, Lord.

Today, we will live for You.