Where Do You See Hope?

We have invited folks in the Southeast Conference to send in videos of their thoughts about where they see hope. I have also been giving it some thought. We are living in a time of uncertainty! When can we safely resume our “normal” lives; can schools re-open safely; how long will finances last without employment; when will there be a vaccine; will the actions lifting up racism in our society make a real difference; is it federal, state, or local responsibility to respond to situations, etc. With all of this uncertainty, are there signs of hope? Absolutely!

• I see hope in the stories of churches and individuals stepping up to help their neighbors during this time – providing food, making trips to get prescriptions.
• I see hope at the resilience of our local church pastors who never thought of themselves as TV evangelists, but who have stepped forward to understand the technology and learn ways of communicating online to reach even more people.
• I see hope in the flourish of book studies and conversations about racism and history, often with the comment “I never knew that!” or “That’s just wrong!”
• I see hope in people’s anger as they challenge systems that perpetuate racism and injustice.
• I see hope in larger companies using their influence and money to push for change – even changing the name of the Washington Redskins.
• I see hope that the UCC “Sacred Conversations on Race” Summer Institute had such a large response, that additional sessions are scheduled for the Fall and next Winter.
• I see hope that local churches are actively engaged in issues of voter suppression that seek to disenfranchise individuals and communities.
• I see hope as I continue to hear the words of Congressman John Lewis and those who embrace his message encouraging others to move forward and stand up for what they truly believe, while demonstrating the way of peace, love and nonviolence.

I also see hope each morning as I see the birds at the birdfeeder in my backyard (and the squirrels waiting for what is dropped), the rabbit who lives in our flower bed, the occasional chipmunk that runs across the patio. They remind me that “God is good – all the time!” They remind me that God has gifted us with resilience and the ability to affect the world around us. This not only gives me hope but energizes me to see this time as a time of new opportunity to become who God has called us to be.

Blessings, Char Burch
Transitional Conference Minister