Walking in Hope

I. Introduction: Setting the Theme Review of November’s theme: Share the Harvest. Introduction of December’s theme: Share the Hope. Reflection: the church focuses on spreading hope to the community—but hope must also be shared within the church. Observation: the world around us is filled with discouragement; people crave hope, especially during December. II. The Need for Hope Many are discouraged by finances, the future, broken dreams, and depression. Even during the holidays, sadness often deepens for people without Christ. Key idea: We must understand the hope of Jesus ourselves before we can share it. III. What Hope Means for Believers Hope satisfies human longing for something better. Jesus Christ is the only one who can fill the inner void. Scriptural foundation: Proverbs 13:12 — “Hope deferred makes the heart sick.” Proverbs 23:18 — “There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.” IV. Three Aspects of Hope in God 1. The Hope of His Arms Deuteronomy 33:27 — God’s “everlasting arms” are our refuge. Illustration: a child running into his father’s arms—mirrors how believers should run to God. God’s arms are extended in comfort, guidance, and embrace. Isaiah and Deuteronomy emphasize God’s outstretched arm leading His people. Applications: Run into God’s arms for help. Don’t fold your arms at others returning to faith—welcome them with love and compassion. 2. The Hope of His Eyes Story of the Prodigal Son: The father (representing God) sees his son coming from afar. Psalm 34:15 — “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous.” Examples of Jesus’ watchful eyes: The woman with the issue of blood (Mark 5:32). Zacchaeus in the sycamore tree (Luke 19:5). The widow’s offering (Luke 21:1–4). Message: God sees, notices, and acknowledges even unseen acts of faithfulness. 3. The Hope of His Heart Matthew 11:29 — Jesus is “gentle and humble in heart.” The heart of God is full of compassion. Scripture examples: Matthew 9:36, 14:14, 15:32 — Christ’s compassion for the crowds. Ministry analogy: working with people requires “shifting gears” like a manual car; compassion guides those shifts. Having the heart of God helps believers love and relate well to others. V. Living Out Hope Run into the arms of God. See people through God’s eyes. Reflect His compassionate heart in word and deed. Encourage one another within the church as well as outside it. VI. Communion and the Source of Hope The foundation of hope is Christ’s death and resurrection. Romans 8:31–39 — Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Communion as an act of remembrance for Jesus’ sacrifice and love. Gratitude expressed to Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. VII. Closing Exhortation Illustration: A woman (“Janet”) changed her environment with joyful faith—“Jesus brings joy.” Believers are called to represent Jesus well in their words, behavior, and daily interactions. Christmas focus: keep Jesus—the greatest gift—at the center. Invitation to prayer and dedication at the altar.