Steadfast Hope
The reflection by Rev. Jeanne Randall-Bodman presented on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
“Now, in our time of conflict, anxiety, confusion, and chaos, this steadfast hope is the greatest defiance we can make to empire. And it is the greatest gift that we can give the world. Our hope, which is sometimes a feeling, but is also always a decision, rests on the promise of God's presence, and the rest that that gives our souls.
“Our hope is not blind. It begins in seeing clearly all that is happening, and deciding, nevertheless, to do the next right thing. The next right thing that will extend mercy, offer encouragement, work for justice.
“Our hope is laced together in community. Here in this community, in our friend circles, our family circles, in our neighborhoods, wherever we gather regularly, in real life, with other human beings, who can benefit from our service, our kindness, and our simple, attentive presence. Wherever we can benefit from receiving service, kindness, and the simple, attentive presence of others.”
Liberating Words:
Exodus 33: 12 - 23
Matthew 22: 15 - 22