Lespwa Means Hope

If you know me at all, you know that I love to study Greek mythology, not because I believe it is accurate but because it accurately portrays the human condition apart from God. The story of Pandora's Box is no different.

Pandora was the first woman to live and her creation was a combined effort by all of the gods. Pandora opened a box given to her by the gods that contained all the ailments of mankind. In her curiosity, she released all evil to plague the earth and only hope remained inside. It is said that as long as hope remains within the box, mankind can combat evil and overcome, but if hope is ever released, mankind has given up the fight against evil.

As I have researched Haiti, I have come to the realization that if any nation in the western world has reason to give up hope, it is this tiny country. The living conditions are terrible - water is undrinkable, homes are made of metal and wood pieces, many cannot afford food that nourishes themselves or their children, the government is corrupt, jobs are scarce, children live on the streets or in orphanages, the education system does not foster learning and continued education. And now damage from the earthquake has only increased the devastation. Haiti seems HOPELESS.

But that is not a word in the Lord's vocabulary.

Because we know He has compassion for the lost, lonely, poor, broken, and weary, we know He looks at the Haitians and feels their pain. But He promises HOPE! Hope for you in your situation and hope for Haiti. He meets us at our point of need...

Romans 5:5 - "And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."

Hebrews 6:3 - "But Christ, as the Son, is in charge of God's entire house. And we are God's house, if we keep our courage and remain confident in our hope in Christ."

Jeremiah 29:11 - "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'"

Even in a seemingly hopeless situation the Lord promises a future and a hope. I attended a worship service this week where a group of guys in their 20s presented a message and a method of hope for the Haitian people. The campaign is called "Lespwa Means Hope." In Haitian Creole, "lespwa" is the word for "hope." These guys are committed to changing one life at a time, and maybe, over time, a nation will be changed. Please check out their website if you are interested in knowing more or helping. There are many needs in this small nation and you can help and give hope to those who may have none.

If your situation seems hopeless, run to Jesus. Email me or leave a message and I would love to talk with you. He sees your need and has compassion. Then He extends His hand to you and offers eternal hope, a hope and joy that can only come from knowing Jesus Christ. He is the Great I AM of HOPE.

"There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off." Proverbs 23:18