Occasionally, my classes get sidetracked, and discussions go astray. One day, I asked the students what they would miss if suddenly it were “lights out,” and they were no longer in existence. Many of them said they would miss their families, their pets, or simple pleasures, like a warm blanket. But there was one student whose response made me backpedal. He said he would miss hope.

After I thought about it, I realized how important hoping is for our wellness. It’s a nice feeling. It’s far better than being hopeless, which seems to have the world’s attention at the moment. I would miss anticipating, being eager, and having the energy that comes with waiting patiently. I love crafting things, anticipating the fruition of my imagination’s work. That’s partly why I came to St. Andrew’s three years ago, to build a music ministry. I saw potential. I saw something in my imagination’s eye, an incredible opportunity to take the tools that were already here, and to hone them into a polished gem. That anticipation is still with me as we journey together, the energy and joy of perpetual improvement propelling us forward. I apply this to many areas of my life, not just my work here. I can see why my student said that he would miss hope; unfortunately, the world is missing hope, right now. Many have nothing in which to aspire. Hopelessness is winning, what a shame!

Our anthem today sums up the joy of hope. It is an embodiment of that spring in your step that comes when you prepare for welcoming goodness into your life. The music skips along, as if it were dancing. It’s like getting excited, when you’re preparing for guests. Nothing motivates me more to clean my house than having company. I mean, I get down to the crevices and behind the furniture, when I know people are coming over! Hope is motivating. Hopelessness encourages inertia, and it’s fear that paralyzes us. Sometimes hope is just a matter of planning! One of the most motivating factors for practicing the organ is putting a recital on the calendar. Sometimes, just sending out your invitations is what it takes to get your hopes up, and to motivate you to get your home in tiptop shape. Hope motivates, it energizes, it sings!

Our anthem today has that joy of hope built right into its DNA. When you hear it, you’ll know what I’m talking about. “Make your house fair as you are able, trim the hearth, and set the table.” The music hops along with a jaunty tune that prepares for goodness, a deep knowing that all will be well. It’s fun to host a party, but too many of us are hosting pity parties instead.

I’m glad my student reminded me of the importance of hope. And I’m glad we celebrate Advent in the Episcopal Church, the season of joyful anticipation. It’s nice to look forward to things. It will put a spring in your step and a song in your heart. That’s what this anthem is all about. Don’t lose hope, it is one of the most precious gifts we’ve got, yet in short supply. Soli deo Gloria!