HOPE!

(NOTE the date that I wrote this - October 5th - almost a full month before the epic Game 7 of the 2016 World Series!)

"Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful."

(Hebrews 10:23)

One hundred and eight years. That's how long it has been since the Chicago Cubs last won a world series. Epic doesn't even begin to describe the plight of the Cubs fans. There's been disappointment after disappointment over the years. "Curses" upon "curses." BUT... THIS COULD BE THEIR YEAR! The Cubs have the best record in baseball heading into the postseason. And Cubs fans everywhere are ecstatic at the possibility of what... just... might... happen!

As I was reading Hebrews today I thought of Cubs fans. The author calls for an unwavering faith and hope for us as Christians... that God is faithful and God will bring about his promises to us. When I think about God's promises, I'm reminded of God's love and never-failing grace... yes, the promise of eternity... but also that the Kingdom of God is among us. That Jesus came to help inaugurate a new reality - where we can be aspects of change, hope, and grace in the world today, through the power of the Holy Spirit.

People may not be experiencing the fullness of life that God intended yet. There is evil, sin, injustice, oppression, and disillusionment all over the world (heck, all over our own communities in which we live!). But instead of being overwhelmed and discouraged, let us have the hope of Cubs fans everywhere (okay, maybe even a greater hope than that!). God is faithful! We can trust that the risen Christ is working to change the world. And we can help!