“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil...” Hebrews 6:19

The crazy things that Christians do show that they fear God more than man. There is a future judgment in which God will hold all people accountable for their life’s investment. And there is a daily life lived before God which brings Him glory. Some give away money even though they are struggling with their finances. Some have a screaming desire for solitude, yet they go meet with others that have a need for fellowship. In an age of say-so love, some show their love in amazing ways, like caring for incapacitated spouses, children or friends. Some give away everything for which others grasp, leaving their comfort zones, stepping out where only the arms of God can bear them up. Some would love to seek out entertainment. Yet, having their hope in God, they forgo popular culture, setting their minds, instead, on things above.

These are examples of one side of the coin of hope. We’ve seen the other side of this coin and it isn’t pretty. Every time we look at the paper or see the news we observe the conduct of those with no hope. We see the results of those who place their hope in false gods. The Bible tells us of the judgment that befalls a people who have no hope. “So God said to Noah, ‘I am going to put an end to all people, for the earth is filled with violence because of them...’’’

An end is coming that will make Noah’s flood look like a day at the local water park. A train track is a dangerous place to rest our head. In the same way we ought to be cautious about becoming comfortable in this world’s culture. Judgment is fearful not something to flirt with. We don’t place our hope in the day of judgment, rather we place our hope in Him who presides over that day, our Heavenly Father. As we wait in hope, we do so humbly, as to a light burning on a hill. It lights the way for the wanderer. In the dark there is no hope. But when the light is lit, the wanderer becomes a pilgrim. Suddenly there is a destination. Glory be to the ancient of days! May we point to Him in all that we do and say.

What is Hope?

The marathon was an illustration of the promise of heaven. A long race, like life, is experienced by yourself but in a crowd. Some people stand out, some blend in. I’m such a good example of the latter group. As I readied myself before the start I was puzzled as I noticed that some of the runners had written their name on their shirt, arm, leg, or hat. Later, during the race, I realized that some spectators love to call out encouragement... sometimes urging on specific runners by name. Running the same pace as “Mandy” was great. Her name was in bold relief in green on the front and back of her shirt. Though the encouragement was actually being called out to her, it had an effect on me as well. “Go Mandy!” “Stay strong Mandy!” “You can do it Mandy!” I was grateful to get an uplifting “looking good 5495!” But the greatest encouragement, the biggest inspiration as I pushed through the pain, was the finish line. I knew it was up ahead. I knew that there were finishers up there. They had fought through the pain and they were resting. In my mind there was the pervasive knowledge that my family would be there waiting for me. Their hopes were set on seeing me there healthy and strong. When cramps invaded my muscles and I hobbled to the curb to stretch out, I was not tempted to lie down and give up. I pressed on because of the hope that I had in me. It carried me on as God whispered in my consciousness, “You are mine” and “I am here for you!”

“Our hope,” as the song says, “is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.” It is also fortified by the faith of those who have gone before us. Spend each day in the hope of the finish line... its closer than you think! He is there for you, waiting to pronounce that cherished benediction, “well done good and faithful servant!”

2005 Twin Cities Marathon 

Testing

When God sends testing, He doesn't ask for permission. Otherwise most of us would never be tested. Pain is something that we naturally avoid... God made us that way. We instinctively pull our hand away from the heat. We question the sanity of a person who likes pain. People who cut or burn themselves need counseling or even more extreme corrective measures.

So when the heat is turned up in our life it is not surprising that we want out. Pulling, away from the things that we perceive as painful, we seek relief in a myriad of comforts. What God asks is not that we seek out testing or enjoy it, but that we have faith when it does come. Jesus invites us to come to Him for comfort. He says, "Come to me all who are weary and heavy laden." Try to picture the masses of humanity responding to that invitation. What a sorry bunch we are, limping and hunched under a burden, taking that road less traveled, jeering catcalls at our backs. We press on in faith...

He asks that we have faith in His desire, purpose and power to refine us and make us holy. We take the yoke with Him in the hope for rest, relief and joy. Other comforts are empty, worn out promises. We still pray for a way out of the pain, we look for ways to minimize the suffering, but we must wait patiently for His perfect time. Stay the course! Be the hopeful pilgrim that God has called you to be.

We were all a little tired when it was all over! 

Ruthie with some of her wonderful potted flowers. 

Grandma Bertie enjoyed having the family around. We all missed Dave, Bethie, Little David, Jonathan and Faith! 

Have coffee, will go! 

Jane's feeling better... we're all praying for her (she has to live with Frank, y'know) 

When will they let me open this present?!?! 

I never noticed the likeness before! 

Dave playing Evan's game, Jane and Bertie looking on. 

Here's some classic Frank Weiland with his wonderful mom... enjoying a beautiful September day in MN. 

Celebrating a few birthdays over the Labor Day weekend... 

Iain and Elsie are now done with their MN State Fair duties.  

Sami is controlling her deepest desires! She wants to eat this Alaskan Sourdough in the worst way! They are a perfect treat for her (if we happen to have any extra). She's got a sensitive stomach... but sourdoughs seem to settle quite well, "thankyou!" 

Goodbye Alaska! Pioneer Peak 

You never know what waits for you at the end of the trail... until you get there.  

Ponytails are a good speedometer... this one indicates "fast!" 

Go Heidi!!! 

Some beautiful athletes! 

Cool construction projects... this one at Kluane lake 

Liard Hot Springs 

Muncho Lake 

Enjoying the views in Saskatchewan!
 

You should never be too busy to throw rocks in a stream... 

First night out... before the storm... before "stretching out" for a good night's sleep. 

...He's on a diet!