Brenda’s Blog – November 18, 2025
My friend, Becky, was a champion, a hero, a faith-walker. She had cancer, but cancer didn’t have her. Support groups, teal ribbons on the campus of Baylor Hospital, and young Moms encouraged by talks – all these were brought to life by her. What motivated her? 1) Her belief in the Lord Jesus Christ; 2) Her belief in a God-given purpose; and 3) Her belief in HOPE… not ordinary lower case hope, but HOPE.
She once ended a speech to a group at Baylor Hospital with a resounding HOPE, HOPE, HOORAY!! That was the way she lived. She taught all of us to treasure each day and spend each hour doing what we are called to do.
Years ago during the age of the Tea Party I joined friends in attending gatherings to stimulate interest in lower taxes and smaller government. We fervently wrote letters, hosted neighborhood get-togethers and created clever hand-lettered posterboards.
One evening I decided to express my deeply held conviction that the darkness was overtaking the American culture. Perhaps I still do, but on this evening I felt it necessary to lay my case before my son and his wife, parents of my newest grandchild. They listened then deftly changed the subject. But before closing the conversation my son left me with one statement, “Mom, we love you and we appreciate your concern. If things are going to get worse as you believe then we ask you to help us hope.” It was nearly 17 years ago those words still stir my heart.
Becky understood the power of hope. My son understood the need for hope.
Hope is part of our job description as believers in Jesus. We are to exhibit the boldness and courage which can only fully be seen through Him. He gives us peace when all we have are pieces. He gives us strength when all we experience is the storm. He shows a way when “there seems to be no way,” as Don Moen wrote.
A smile, a kind word, an encouraging text, or even an uplifting comment on Facebook can bring hope. A “song in the night” via an email can change dread into eagerness. Let’s be hope givers who practice the fine art wherever we go. Opportunities are abundance. Hope is always welcome.