[Christian authors have] point[ed] out that Christian hope not only made it possible for singles to live fulfilled lives without spouse and children, but also was impetus for people to marry and have children and not be afraid to bring them into this dark world. “For Christians do not place their hope in their children, but rather their children are a sign of their hope . . . that God has not abandoned this world.” (Hardcover, p. 196; paperback, p. 224)
THE MULTIPLE USES OF HOPE. Fewer married couples are having children. Many say we shouldn’t bring new people into a darkening world. Others simply don’t want the limitations on freedom that children bring into your life. But everywhere in Scripture that children are mentioned they are called a “blessing” from God. I (Kathy) had to rely on God’s word, as I was one of the people who never enjoyed babies and resented the time children seemed to take from their parents. How much I would have missed if I had not moved into motherhood simply because I trusted God! Trusting in God’s promise—that we will all live forever in love in a new, renewed universe—gives both singles hope that their future is secure without children, and married people hope that their children’s future is secure as well.
Reflection: Elisabeth Elliot’s definition of suffering is “Having what you don’t want or wanting what you don’t have.” Some people want children (singles or the infertile); others have them and are at their wit’s end. How does God’s word address each group?
Thought for prayer: Meditate on Romans 8:18–25 for our hope in a restored future world. Ask God to fill you with joy at this prospect, and make it a baseline of peace in your life, regardless of how things are going at the present time.