Series Introduction:  For the next seven days, we’ll be reading the Bible with Dr Michael, General Secretary of Bible Society Lebanon, Bible Society Australia’s mission partner in several Bible engagement projects. Together, we will explore our source of hope and faith, focusing on vulnerable children and families facing adversity. Throughout this series, we’ll delve into God’s word, and reflect on how it offers hope and faith for all, especially for children navigating challenging circumstances.

Reflection:  While Saint Paul’s epistle to the Corinthian church, particularly chapter 13, is usually read at weddings because of its focus on “Love,” there are two other aspects that are usually overpassed: faith and hope. Love binds things together, but without faith, our love is superficial. And without hope, our faith is a hypocrisy. Terry Law, in his book “The Hope Habit” states that hope is a choice, but as Christians we have no choice but to choose hope! The moment we doubt God’s goodness, even in difficult circumstances, and lose hope, our faith is tested, and God’s love — which we are commanded to transmit to others — disappears.

Hope is best portrayed when circumstances around us seem hopeless. This is not a call to be unrealistic optimists, but rather a reminder that we have access to the source of hope, no matter what difficulties encountered. Such hope is still seen in the eyes of refugee children, living in unimaginable circumstances and their future is unknown. If they can choose hope, we can too.

Choose hope!

Prayer:  Thank you, Lord, for providing us with an unlimited fountain of hope that we can quench our thirst and strengthen our faith and transmit your unconditional love to a world where love is usually conditional.