Seeing Hope in the Darkness - Hebrews 1–6

Come, Follow Me: New Testament 2023 (October 30—November 5)

Did you see this headline in the news this week?

With full-time missionary numbers exceeding 72,000, Church to create 36 new missions worldwide

Elder Marcus B. Nash explains the growth in the news article, “Against all the currents and winds of our society, they’re stepping forward to serve because, as President Nelson said, the gospel is the only enduring solution.”

Amidst all the news stories filled with frustration, heart-wrenching despair, and anxiety-producing fear, this one was bright and filled with hope. It’s a story of youth not leaving the church but choosing to leave the world to teach of Jesus. It’s a story of sacrifice, not selfishness. It’s a story of touching those in the world who are seeking Him because “the answer is always Jesus Christ” (President Russell M. Nelson).

Paul spoke of hope being the anchor of the soul (Hebrews 6:19), sure and steadfast. He is our refuge (Hebrews 6:18) and is where we will find rest (Hebrews 4:5).

Neal Maxwell describes this ultimate hope as only Neal Maxwell can, “Real hope keeps us “anxiously engaged” in good causes even when these appear to be losing causes on the mortal scoreboard (see D&C 58:27). Likewise, real hope is much more than wishful musing. It stiffens, not slackens, the spiritual spine. Hope is serene, not giddy, eager without being naive, and pleasantly steady without being smug. Hope is realistic anticipation which takes the form of a determination—not only to survive adversity but, moreover, to “endure … well” to the end (D&C 121:8). 

When you feel discouraged, remember this week’s good news, knowing there is more, much more, to come. 

“But, my dear brothers and sisters, so many wonderful things are ahead. In coming days, we will see the greatest manifestations of the Savior’s power that the world has ever seen. Between now and the time He returns ‘with power and great glory,’ He will bestow countless privileges, blessings, and miracles upon the faithful” (President Russell M. Nelson).