What does HOPE look like for the Church, for Mount Olivet? My HOPE for the church is to continue to work by Jesus’ example. We do that by giving HOPE to others in supporting our partners in the world through ELCA, Lutheran World Relief, Global Health. We give HOPE in the community with food, clothing, shelter through PRISM, Home Free, Northport Elementary, Loaves and Fishes, our community garden, Beacon, Habitat, and volunteering just to name a few. We give HOPE with freedom of voice in advocacy through writing or speaking to our local, state and federal representatives. We give HOPE in our prayers for and encouragement to our youth. I do see HOPE in our young people today.

Recently I was reading a book about trees with my kids and I came across something new that surprised me. I learned that trees actually form their buds at the end of summer! Even before the trees change color and drop their leaves, they are quietly getting ready behind the scenes for the year ahead. While they look as if life is over in the winter, they are in fact already equipped with all they will need to blossom when spring’s thawing temperatures return.

So it is my focus to try each day to transform those negative thoughts, memories and pains into my fuel of Hope where God’s work is accomplished. As we begin our Advent Season, I am hopeful for all that the Spirit brings to me in my life. Yes, as Christians, we celebrate the anticipation of the Christ Child, and it is not only a truth, but a reminder given to us through the Spirit. What gives me Hope?… the Holy Spirit gives me Hope, but only if I do the work to hear and feel that subtle yet transformational feeling that shows me my best self and then share that with all who cross my path.

After having my first child, wonderful friends and family members descended upon my house in droves, bearing baby gifts and food and well wishes. “Let me know if you need anything,” they would say as they flew out the door, back to their own lives and commitments.