Attribute #7 - Hope

Because Clara's middle name is Hope, it seemed appropriate to talk about hope today. We all want to develop hope in Christ, and to believe that his promises will come to pass. We want that "confident expectation" that the sorrows of this life will turn into joys. We anticipate the blessing of eternal life eventually. However, I realized today that hope goes the other direction as well. Heavenly Father wants us to succeed. Jesus Christ has completed his mission; he hopes that each one of us will complete ours as well. I'm confident that as she learns and grows, Clara will continue to be a good example of hope. I look forward to the future!

Hope (a regular dictionary): 
The feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best; a person or thing in which expectations are centered.

Hope (The Guide to the Scriptures):
The confident expectation of and longing for the promised blessings of righteousness. The scriptures often speak of hope as anticipation of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.

Ether 12:4
Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God.

Writing a thank you note, mixing a cake, carrying water for the fire - Clara's a great helper!

Did you see that phrase "always abounding in good works"? Clara loves to help others. In fact, I also considered discussing helpfulness as her attribute. Being helpful is one way to "let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

photo credit: Elizabeth Swindle

The Christmas message is a message of hope. Here's a song by Clive Romney portraying that beautiful message:

1. On angel voices from realms of glory a song was borne to man,
A song of hope, a song of joy, confirming the wondrous plan.
The angels sang of redeeming love, the dawn of salvation’s morn.
Yes, hope was born on that Christmas day, when Jesus Christ was born.

2. How long earth waited to hear the tidings of peace, good will to men.
And to each soul who yields to Him good tidings are borne again.
To hearts prepared to give Him room the blessed child will come.
For, hope is born when each heart receives God’s Only Begotten Son.