Loss of hope is a leading factor in suicide and depression. Hope is so vital in life that without it we cannot live; we have nothing to look forward to. Luckily, hope abounds in most hearts. Many of us wake up every morning and find all sorts of things to live for, no matter our situations. In turn, we can strengthen hope in others. In the gospel, Jesus brings hope to those with little hope. He led his disciples into the Decapolis, a gentile region. Prejudice against the gentiles ran deep among the Jews. They considered them to be heathen and outcasts. God cannot be bothered with them. Leading by example, Jesus teaches his disciples that God cares about everyone, especially the lost, the outcast, and the needy. During Advent and Christmas, we intensify our efforts to care for the lost, the outcast, and the needy among us. Like Jesus and the disciples may we go out and meet them where they are. May we minister to their needs with compassion. May we use the little we have to meet the needs at hand.

Prayer: God of abundance, help us to bring hope to those in need. May our efforts yield abundant fruits. Amen.