May 19 – The Subversive Nature of Hope

Gregg’s Reflection

I’ve learned that hope isn’t passive. It doesn’t just wait around for the world to improve—it insists that God’s kingdom is breaking in, even when the evidence seems slim. In my own journey, hope has been the quiet voice that says, “Don’t give up—keep leaning forward.”

There have been seasons where the headlines, the diagnoses, or the personal losses whispered despair. Yet something deeper in me, planted by God, refused to give in. That’s the subversive nature of hope—it looks reality square in the face, names what’s broken, and still lives into God’s vision of restoration.

Hope keeps me from becoming cynical. It shapes my prayers, my decisions, and my willingness to risk for the sake of love. It pushes against resignation and pulls me toward the day when all will be made new. That’s not naïve—it’s trust in the God who keeps His promises.

Scripture

They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore.

Isaiah 2:4

Ancient Quotes

Hope has two beautiful daughters; their names are Anger and Courage. Anger at the way things are, and Courage to see that they do not remain as they are.

St. Augustine

Modern Quotes

Hope is subversive precisely because it dares to admit that all is not as it should be… and so we are holding out for, working for, creating, prophesying, and living into something better.

Sarah Bessey

If you’re going through Hell, keep moving.

Anonymous

Journaling Prompts

• Where do you see God’s kingdom breaking in today?
  
  
• How does hope challenge you to act in the present?
  
  
• In what areas of your life is God inviting you to resist despair?
  
  
• How might you embody subversive hope for others this week?

👉 Go deeper into this week’s theme:
Read the full Week 20 Reflection: Hope