Hope

In his book, The Optimism Bias, Tali Sharot cites several scientific studies that seem to indicate that the human brain is hard-wired for hope. Without it, we might all still be living in caves without heat or light from the discovery of fire! It's hope that allows us to take chances, risks and challenges. And i'ts hope that restores us after catastrophes.
Many people interviewed immediately after the 9/11 tragedy told of events one way, and years later told them very differently. Many had found a "silver lining" coming out of the horrors of that day. All of them had re-written history in softer language because our optimistic hopeful minds will not hold onto the raw carnage of that day.
There have been many reactions to the events of last week in Aurora, Colorado. Some have asked, "Why?" Some question how a good God could let this horror happen. That's another whole article for next week. I would suggest that one reaction we as Christians could offer is hope. Hope that we can work to build a better future. Hope that we can learn from these mistakes and poor choices and help these disturbed individuals before they pick up a gun. Hope that we can build a world without the need of guns. Hope that we can teach the way of Christ to all humankind - the way of faith, HOPE, and love.
One strain seems to run through all of the individuals perpetrating these crimes - hopelessness. Terrorists claim to be fighting hopeless poverty and inequality among their people. The shooters at Columbine, Virginia Tech and Aurora all shared a sense of hopelessness.
Jesus Christ came to earth to give us hope - hope of life, both an abundant life here and eternal life in the heavens. He was all about LIFE, and he conquered death.
In 1 Corinthians 13:7 Paul tells us, "Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance." One of the most important components in offering hope to others is to love them. We cannot preach the gospel with words to someone who is suffering. Their ears cannot hear. We need to preach with kindness, with empathy, with help and with hope. As their suffering eases, we begin to preach with our presence. Then, when God's time is right, we can share His word. It's like preparing the soil before planting.
Right now, we offer prayers. We offer encouragement. We offer sympathy. We may be angry, but that is not what needs to be shared. They have enough of that already. We may be outraged, confused, scared, and any number of other emotions. We share those with family and friends and spiritual advisors. But with our brothers and sisters who are suffering...we our share hope, until theirs returns again.