October 21, 2017 Saturday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time-A

Romans 4:13, 16-18

Psalm 105

Luke 12:8-12

He believed, hoping against hope… Romans 4:18

“For the Holy Spirit will teach you at that moment what you should say.” Lk. 12:12

Lord, we hope for things all the time.  I hope for good weather for the picnic this weekend, hope my cold will get better, or that my favorite football team wins the big game.  The hope Paul is teaching us about today is different than just wishes.  It is hope in you and in your promises.  Paul uses the example of the hope of Abraham which was based on extraordinary faith.  Abraham believed you would fulfill all your promises even those that seemed impossible.  He even risked the life of his only son in his trust in God.  Lord, I have hope because I believe that you love me and want only what is best for me.  However I must admit that when times get really tough or I don’t understand how you are working in my life I can struggle with my faith.  It is then my hope can waver.  Dear Jesus, I ask for the faith of Abraham to energize my hope in your faithfulness.  I want to trust that when the chips are down I can rely on your Holy Spirit to teach me the words or actions that keep me faithful to you.  Amen.