“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 (NIV)

Barbies and dolls were two of my passions as a young girl. And it was during those years the American Girl Company was created with the original five: Felicity, Kirsten, Addy, Samantha and Molly. I dreamed of owning Molly. It did not matter that my parents were in full-time ministry and would not be able to afford her. It also did not matter that we did not live close to an American Girl Doll Store. All that mattered was this burning hope and belief within me that somehow I was going to be the proud owner of a Molly doll.

I had to wait a while, but eventually one Christmas morning I opened a box from my grandparents to see Molly’s adorable face staring back at me. Needless to say we had wonderful adventures together and yes, I am still the proud owner of that Molly doll.

During that time of waiting I was not sullen nor angry that Molly did not belong to me immediately. Quite the contrary. My hope gave me a sense of joy and anticipation in one day receiving her. As believers, we have this hope and expectancy for a better future in Jesus! This hope should effect every moment and every circumstance of our lives. God’s desire is for us to make those around us curious about the joyful hope that shines through us. So I ask you: are you a hope giver? Because our world desperately needs it.

Noree Wegmeyer