Prayer For The Cross: Atonement Through Christ

Prayer for the Cross is a profound entreaty, it serves as a potent reminder of the atonement achieved through Jesus Christ sacrifice. The act of praying before a cross is a demonstration of deep reverence, the faithful are seeking solace, strength, and divine guidance in their lives, Catholics and other denomination regularly engage in prayer. This sacred practice calls to mind the immense love and suffering endured by Jesus for the salvation of humanity.

Okay, friends, let’s dive into something deep and super important: the connection between prayer and the Cross in Christianity. Think of it like this: prayer is our lifeline to the divine, and the Cross? Well, that’s the ultimate symbol of love, sacrifice, and a fresh start.

What’s Prayer, Anyway?

So, what is prayer? In the Christian world, it’s not just about reciting words. It’s a heart-to-heart conversation with God. It’s whispering your fears, shouting your joys, and just generally connecting with the Big Guy upstairs. It can be as simple as saying, “Thanks for the sunshine!” or as intense as begging for a miracle. Either way, it is a central part of being a Christian.

The Cross: The OG Symbol

Now, the Cross! You see it everywhere, right? Churches, necklaces, even tattoos. But it’s more than just a trendy shape. It is the center of Christian belief, reminding us of Jesus’s sacrifice. It represents His unwavering love, His ultimate act of service, and His promise that even death doesn’t get the last word.

Suffering, Hope, and the Cross

Here’s where it gets real: the Cross isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s raw. It’s about suffering. But—and this is a huge BUT—it’s also about hope. It tells us that even in the darkest times, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. The Cross is our symbol that suffering doesn’t have the last word, hope does.

Thesis Statement: Cracking the Code

So, what’s the big idea here? By zooming in on all the things linked to the Cross, we’re going to understand prayer a whole lot better. We’re talking about the people, places, and even the objects around the Cross, because trust me, they all add layers to how we pray and why it matters. These entities enrich our understanding of prayer’s profound meaning and impact on individuals and communities.

Jesus Christ: The Heart of the Cross and Prayer

Okay, let’s dive into the big one – Jesus Christ. I mean, you can’t talk about the Cross without talking about Him, right? He’s not just a side character; He’s the whole reason we’re even having this chat. Think of Jesus as the ultimate superhero, but instead of flying around in a cape, He went about in sandals, teaching, healing, and showing us the way to, well, everything.

Son of God, Suffering Servant

First up, we’ve got to remember that Christians believe Jesus is the Son of God and the promised Messiah. That’s a pretty big deal! And here’s the kicker: He wasn’t just kicking back on a throne in heaven. Nope, He came down to our messy world.

Now, let’s talk about the Cross. It’s not a pretty story, but it’s a powerful one. Jesus’s suffering on the Cross is believed to be this massive demonstration of love. Seriously, imagine going through all that pain, not because you deserved it, but because you wanted to show everyone how much you care. It’s like the ultimate act of selflessness.

A Direct Line to the Divine

Here’s where the prayer part comes in. Believers approach Jesus in prayer for all sorts of things. Need a little help? Pray to Jesus. Feeling lost? Pray to Jesus. Just want to say thanks? You guessed it – pray to Jesus. He’s like that friend you can call anytime, day or night, no judgment, just pure support.

But why Jesus? Well, many see Jesus as an intercessor. Think of Him as a cosmic go-between, connecting us with God. The idea is that Jesus understands our struggles because He’s been there, done that (and then some!). So, when we pray to Jesus, it’s like having a direct line to someone who gets it and can put in a good word for us upstairs. This role as the ultimate mediator is one of the primary reasons the Crucifix is such a powerful symbol. It symbolizes his role as the Son of God, his life, death, and ultimately, his resurrection.

Final Thoughts:

In a nutshell, Jesus is at the very heart of the Cross and our prayers. He’s the reason the Cross isn’t just a symbol of suffering, but of love, hope, and redemption. And through prayer, we get to connect with this amazing figure and tap into all that good stuff. Simple as that (well, maybe not that simple, but you get the gist!).

Key Figures at the Foot of the Cross: Their Prayers and Significance

Okay, picture this: the most earth-shattering event in Christian history is unfolding. But it’s not just about one person. The Cross became the epicenter of humanity, with a supporting cast whose reactions and stories still echo through the ages and influence how we pray today. Let’s mosey on over and eavesdrop on a few of these folks, shall we?

Mary, the Mother of Jesus: A Mother’s Unyielding Faith

First up, our hearts go out to Mary, the Mother of Jesus. Can you even fathom watching your child—your son—endure such unimaginable suffering? Her sorrow must have been crushing, a weight no mother should ever bear. Yet, amidst the anguish, her faith remained. She embodies unwavering hope and strength.

• Have you ever felt so heartbroken that you didn’t know what to do? Many turn to Mary in prayer, seeking her comfort, her strength, her motherly touch from beyond. People petition for Mary’s intercession, hoping for a direct line to the divine, just like a child running to their mom for help.

Mary isn’t just a historical figure; she’s a symbol of faith, obedience, and love. She reminds us that even in the darkest valleys, belief can endure. She embodies a true meaning of hope.

The Good Thief (Dismas): Redemption in the Nick of Time

Next, we have a surprising guest, The Good Thief, also known as Dismas. Here’s a guy literally on his last legs, facing the ultimate consequence. But in a moment of clarity, he repents and pleads for mercy. “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom,” he says. Talk about a last-minute prayer!

• Isn’t it wild how his story inspires prayers of repentance and requests for divine mercy? The Good Thief teaches us that it’s never too late to turn things around. We all mess up, but his tale highlights that even in the darkest hour, redemption is possible.

Pontius Pilate: The Weight of Indecision

Then there’s Pontius Pilate, a man caught in a political and moral bind. He knew Jesus was likely innocent, yet he caved to pressure and condemned him to death. His internal conflict is palpable, a stark reminder of the heavy burden of responsibility.

• Pilate’s story prompts prayers related to justice, moral courage, and accountability. We reflect on his actions, questioning our own integrity in difficult situations.
• How often do we compromise our values to avoid conflict? Pilate’s actions are a cautionary tale, urging us to do what’s right, even when it’s hard.

The Roman Centurion: An Unexpected Revelation

And who could forget The Roman Centurion? This guy wasn’t a believer, he was a soldier doing his job. But after witnessing the crucifixion and the events that followed, he declared, “Truly, this was the Son of God!” Talk about an unexpected conversion!

• His story fuels prayers related to faith, recognition, and affirming God’s presence in unexpected places.
• Sometimes, the most profound revelations come when we least expect them. The Centurion teaches us to be open to seeing God in surprising ways.

Saints: Our Spiritual Cheerleaders

Lastly, the Saints. They have witnessed the glory and suffering associated with the Cross.

• Many believers turn to Saints for comfort, guidance, and intercession in times of trouble.
• Saints show a special connection to the Cross and redemption

These figures, standing at the foot of the Cross, remind us that prayer is multifaceted. It encompasses sorrow, repentance, hope, and revelation. It’s a conversation with the divine, shaped by our experiences and the stories of those who came before us. They also show us the influence of prayer practices.

Sacred Spaces: Locations of Prayer and Remembrance

Ever wonder why certain places just feel different? It’s like they hold echoes of the past, whispers of faith, and a tangible sense of the spiritual. When it comes to the crucifixion, there are specific spots that have become powerful magnets for prayer, reflection, and remembrance, drawing believers closer to the heart of the Christian story. Let’s embark on a journey to explore these sacred spaces, where earth and heaven seem to touch.

Golgotha/Calvary: The Hill of Sacrifice

Imagine standing on a hill, windswept and barren, where the most profound act of sacrifice unfolded. That’s Golgotha, also known as Calvary – the site of the crucifixion. The name itself, meaning “the place of the skull,” hints at its grim past, likely a common execution ground.

• Spiritual Significance: This isn’t just any hill; it’s the hill where Jesus gave his life for humanity. It’s a place steeped in somber reflection, reminding us of the immense cost of redemption. When people pray here, they’re often connecting with the raw reality of Jesus’s suffering and the profound love that motivated his sacrifice. It’s a place to confront the reality of sin and the power of forgiveness.

Jerusalem: The Holy City

Jerusalem—the heart of faith, history, and a whole lot of ancient stories! This city isn’t just on the map; it’s etched into the soul of Christianity.

• Historical and Religious Importance: Long before the events of the Gospels, Jerusalem was already a place of profound religious significance for Judaism. For Christians, it’s where Jesus spent much of his ministry, where he celebrated his last Passover with his disciples, and, of course, where he was crucified and resurrected.
  It’s also *a city of layers, with each stone whispering tales of kings, prophets, and pilgrims from centuries past. When you walk through Jerusalem, you’re not just sightseeing; you’re stepping into a living, breathing testament to faith.*

Via Dolorosa (The Way of Sorrows): A Pilgrimage of the Heart

Picture this: a winding path through the bustling streets of Jerusalem, marked by fourteen stations, each commemorating a specific event during Jesus’s journey to the cross. This is the Via Dolorosa, “the Way of Sorrows.”

• A Living Prayer: Walking the Via Dolorosa isn’t just a historical reenactment; it’s a powerful act of prayer and meditation. Pilgrims follow in Jesus’s footsteps, pausing at each station to reflect on his suffering, his encounters, and his unwavering love.
  It’s a deeply personal experience, as you contemplate each moment – Jesus condemned, carrying the cross, falling, meeting his mother – and try to connect with the emotions and spiritual significance of the Passion. The Via Dolorosa is a spiritual pilgrimage that takes you on a journey into the heart of faith, remembrance, and empathy.

Symbols of the Passion: Objects of Reflection and Prayer

Ever wonder why certain objects associated with the Passion of Christ resonate so deeply? They’re more than just historical artifacts; they’re powerful symbols that unlock different types of prayer, stirring our emotions and deepening our spiritual understanding. Let’s take a closer look at a few:

The Cross and Crucifix

The Cross and Crucifix are the ultimate symbols of Christian faith. You see them everywhere, but do we really stop to think about their significance? The Cross, in its simplest form, represents the sacrifice Jesus made for humanity. The Crucifix, with the image of Jesus, brings that sacrifice into sharper focus. It’s a constant reminder of His love and redemption.

The Crucifix serves as a direct line to Jesus in prayer. When we gaze upon it, we’re not just looking at a piece of metal or wood; we’re contemplating the immense love that led Him to the Cross. It’s a focal point for our thoughts, our hopes, and our petitions. Whether it’s a silent plea or a heartfelt conversation, the Crucifix helps us connect with Christ’s sacrifice and find solace in His love. It reminds us we are never alone.

The Crown of Thorns

Ouch! Just thinking about the Crown of Thorns makes you wince, right? This symbol represents Jesus’s suffering and humiliation. It wasn’t just physical pain; it was the insult, the mockery, the injustice of it all.

Praying with the Crown of Thorns in mind leads us to empathy. It helps us understand the suffering of others, especially those who are marginalized, oppressed, and forgotten. It inspires prayers for solidarity, for justice, and for a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. It reminds us to stand with the downtrodden and be a voice for the voiceless.

The Nails

Those brutal Nails, the instruments of Jesus’s crucifixion. It’s a tough image to stomach, but it’s a crucial part of the story. These represent the physical pain and sacrifice Jesus endured.

When we pray with the image of the nails in our minds, we tap into prayers of solidarity. We remember all those who suffer physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It’s a call to action, inspiring us to comfort those in pain, to offer a helping hand, and to advocate for healing and wholeness. These prayers also remind us to appreciate the sacrifices others make for us and to offer our own sacrifices in return.

The Spear

Finally, The Spear, which pierced Jesus’s side. This symbolizes the final act, confirming His death and releasing the flow of blood and water – often interpreted as symbols of the Eucharist and Baptism.

Prayers inspired by the spear often focus on healing and redemption. We ask for grace to flow from Christ’s sacrifice, healing our wounds, both physical and spiritual. This symbol reminds us that even in death, there is life, and that through Christ’s sacrifice, we can find forgiveness, restoration, and eternal life. It gives us hope that even in the darkest moments, healing and redemption are possible.

Commemorating the Passion: Rituals, Events, and Prayer

Hey there, fellow pilgrims! Ever wonder how we keep the story of the Cross alive in our hearts and minds? Well, it’s through the powerful rituals and events that commemorate the Passion of Christ. These aren’t just dates on a calendar; they’re opportunities to dive deep into reflection, say “sorry” for our slip-ups, and recommit to the adventure of faith. Let’s take a stroll through some of these sacred moments, shall we?

The Crucifixion: Center Stage in Christian Theology

Okay, folks, let’s get to the heart of it all: the Crucifixion. This event is the pivotal moment, the axis around which Christian theology spins. It’s not just a historical event; it’s a theological earthquake that reshapes everything. Think about it: the Crucifixion is where we see the ultimate sacrifice, the purest form of love, and the most profound act of redemption. This single event influences our prayers, molds our faith, and colors our understanding of sacrifice. It’s like the sun in our spiritual solar system, radiating meaning and purpose in every direction.

The Passion: Feeling the Weight of Love

Now, let’s rewind a bit and talk about the Passion, those intense moments of Jesus’s suffering leading up to the Cross. When we reflect on the Passion, it’s like stepping into an emotional time machine. We can’t help but feel a pang of sorrow for what Jesus endured – the betrayal, the agony, the sheer injustice of it all. But here’s the thing: this sorrow isn’t meant to leave us wallowing in despair. Instead, it inspires us to pray with heartfelt devotion, to cultivate empathy for those who suffer today, and to seek repentance for the times we’ve fallen short. It’s a call to be more compassionate, more loving, and more attuned to the pain of the world.

Good Friday: A Day of Solemn Remembrance

Cue the somber music… it’s Good Friday. This day is like the Super Bowl of solemnity, commemorating the Crucifixion with rituals, prayers, and an atmosphere so thick with reverence you could cut it with a knife. Good Friday services are often stripped down, raw, and intensely focused on the sacrifice of Jesus. Think readings from Scripture, the veneration of the Cross, and moments of silent reflection that can leave you speechless. It’s a day to pause, to remember, and to grapple with the weight of what happened on that day so long ago.

Stations of the Cross: A Walk of Remembrance

Last but not least, let’s lace up our walking shoes and talk about the Stations of the Cross. This devotional practice is like a spiritual pilgrimage, taking us step-by-step through the final journey of Jesus to his crucifixion. Each station represents a specific moment – Jesus being condemned, carrying his cross, falling, meeting his mother – and offers an opportunity for meditation, prayer, and reflection. It’s not just about retracing historical events; it’s about entering into the story, feeling the emotions, and connecting with the suffering of Christ on a personal level. So, grab your rosary beads, find a quiet space, and take a walk with Jesus. It might just change your perspective on everything.

Core Theological Concepts: The Foundation of Prayer and Belief

Alright, let’s dive deep into the heavy stuff, but in a way that won’t make your head spin. We’re talking about the big ideas behind the Cross and how they supercharge our prayer life. Think of it as understanding the engine that makes your spiritual car go vroom!

Atonement: Making Things Right

Ever messed up so badly you wished you could rewind time? Well, that’s where atonement comes in. In Christian theology, Jesus’s death is seen as the ultimate atonement for our sins. It’s like he paid off our massive debt, so we could get a fresh start.

• Prayers of Thanksgiving: Think about all the weight lifted off your shoulders. Now, say a big “Thank you!” to the Big Guy upstairs.
• Acceptance of Atonement: It’s not enough to just know about it; you gotta embrace it. Acknowledge that this gift is real and meant for you.
• Reconciliation with God: It’s about repairing the relationship. Think of it like patching things up with a friend after a big fight. Prayers help you rebuild that connection.

Redemption: From Zero to Hero

Redemption – it’s the stuff of epic movies, where the bad guy turns good. In our case, it’s about being rescued from sin and death through Jesus’s sacrifice. We go from spiritual zeroes to heroes in God’s eyes!

• Prayers of Gratitude for Redemption: “Thank you for saving me from myself!” It’s like winning the lottery, but instead of cash, you get eternal life.
• Promise of Eternal Life: Because of redemption, death isn’t the end. It’s just the beginning of an eternal party!
• Freedom from Sin and Death: You’re not shackled anymore! Redemption breaks those chains, allowing you to live a life of purpose.

Sacrifice: Giving It All

Jesus gave up everything on the Cross. Sacrifice isn’t just about grand gestures, it’s about the little things, like putting someone else’s needs before your own.

• Prayers of Selflessness: “Help me to think of others first.” It’s about taking the focus off yourself and putting it on someone else.
• Commitment to Others: Sacrifice isn’t a one-time thing. It’s an ongoing commitment to helping those around you.
• Willingness to Serve: Roll up your sleeves and get to work! Whether it’s volunteering at a soup kitchen or just lending a listening ear, every act of service counts.

Suffering: Finding Meaning in the Mess

Let’s be real: life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. Suffering happens. But the Cross teaches us that even in the darkest times, there’s hope and meaning to be found.

• Prayers for Strength: “Give me the power to get through this.” It’s about tapping into a source of strength beyond yourself.
• Comfort and Guidance: In times of trouble, ask for a little divine TLC. It’s like getting a spiritual hug when you need it most.
• Perseverance: Keep on keeping on! Suffering doesn’t have the last word. With God’s help, you can make it through anything.

Forgiveness: Letting Go

Holding onto grudges is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. Forgiveness is essential. It’s about letting go of anger and resentment, both for yourself and others.

• Seeking Forgiveness from God: We all mess up. Asking for forgiveness is like hitting the reset button.
• Extending Forgiveness to Others: It’s not always easy, but it’s freeing. Forgiving someone else is like unlocking a cage you’ve been trapped in.

So, there you have it! Theological concepts demystified! Understanding these big ideas helps us approach prayer with more confidence and a deeper understanding of what it’s all about. Now go forth and pray like you mean it!

Types of Prayers Inspired by the Cross

You know, sometimes life throws you curveballs, and you’re left wondering, “Where’s the manual for this mess?” Well, when those moments hit, and you’re searching for something, anything, to hold onto, the Cross offers a pretty solid anchor. It’s not just a symbol hanging on the wall; it’s a launchpad for some seriously powerful prayers. Let’s dive into a few, shall we?

Prayers for Forgiveness

Ever messed up? Like, really messed up? (Don’t worry, we’ve all been there.) That’s where these prayers come in. They’re like hitting the reset button, acknowledging you’ve taken a wrong turn, and asking for a clean slate. It’s about recognizing that, yeah, we stumble, but Jesus’s sacrifice on the Cross? That’s the ultimate eraser for all our oops-I-did-it-again moments. It’s not just about saying sorry; it’s about grabbing hold of that amazing gift of forgiveness and starting fresh.

Prayers for Strength

Life’s a rollercoaster, right? Sometimes you’re soaring high, hands in the air, and other times you’re plummeting down, stomach in your throat. For those stomach-plummeting moments, prayers for strength are your best friend. Think of Jesus hanging on that Cross – talk about perseverance! These prayers tap into that incredible source of resilience, giving you the grit to face whatever’s coming your way. It’s like saying, “Okay, life, hit me with your best shot. I’ve got this.”

Prayers for Those Who Are Suffering

It’s tough to watch someone you care about go through a rough patch or see suffering in the world. These prayers? They’re like sending a spiritual hug, a beacon of hope into the darkness. You’re not just sitting on the sidelines; you’re actively lifting up those who are hurting, asking for healing, comfort, and a light at the end of the tunnel. It’s about remembering we’re all connected, and their pain is our pain too.

Meditations on the Passion

Ever just sit and think about the whole story of the Passion – Jesus’s suffering, death, and resurrection? It’s intense, right? But it’s also incredibly powerful. Meditating on these events can be a real game-changer for your faith. It’s like taking a deep dive into the heart of Christianity, exploring the depths of God’s love, and coming out with a deeper understanding of what it all means. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to connect with your spirituality on a whole new level.

Scriptural Foundations: Passages That Illuminate the Cross and Prayer

Alright, buckle up, because we’re diving into the real treasure trove: the Scriptures! Think of it like this: the Bible is the ultimate “behind the scenes” look at the Cross and its crazy-powerful connection to prayer. So, let’s rummage through some key biblical corners where the Cross and prayer get their spotlight.

The Gospels: The OG Storytellers

First up, The Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) – these are the eyewitness accounts of Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection. Seriously, these are your primary sources! Within these stories, you’ll find countless instances of Jesus in prayer, often before monumental moments. And then, boom, you’re smacked in the face with the heart-wrenching narrative of the Crucifixion. It’s not just about historical events; it’s about grasping the profound meaning of the Cross. These narratives show us Jesus’s obedience, His love, and His sacrifice, fueling our understanding of prayer. Think of the Garden of Gethsemane – Jesus sweating blood as he prays, submitting to God’s will. Talk about setting the stage for some serious prayer inspiration!

The Psalms: Where Prayers Find Their Voice

Next, let’s wander into The Psalms. Ah, the Psalms – the original Christian playlist for every mood! These verses overflow with suffering, lament, hope, and praise. They’re raw, honest, and utterly relatable. They put into words all those messy feelings we often struggle to articulate in our prayers. When we’re feeling lost or broken, turning to Psalms such as Psalm 22 (“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”) can give our pain a voice and remind us that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone. The Psalms offer a vocabulary of faith, a way to connect with God when words fail us. They teach us to lament, to hope, and to praise through the lens of faith.

Pauline Epistles: Decoding the Mystery of the Cross

Last but certainly not least, we have the Pauline Epistles (Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, etc.). Okay, things might get a tad more theological here. These are letters from the Apostle Paul, and they unpack the mind-blowing theological significance of the Cross. Paul explains how the Cross relates to salvation, faith, and, yep, you guessed it, prayer. He’s like the professor who breaks down complex ideas into bite-sized pieces. Romans 5:1 tells us that being justified by faith, we have peace with God through Jesus. Paul dives into how the Cross bridges the gap between us and God, making prayer a powerful means of connection.

So, there you have it! The Gospels, the Psalms, and the Pauline Epistles – your go-to sources for understanding the connection between the Cross and prayer. Dig in, explore, and let these Scriptural truths light a fire under your prayer life.

The Cross Today: Finding Meaning in Contemporary Suffering

Okay, friends, let’s get real for a sec. We’re not living in biblical times, but trust me, suffering? Still a thing. Maybe even more so with the 24/7 news cycle throwing every tragedy right in our faces. So, how does that ancient symbol of the Cross even begin to speak to our modern mess?

It’s a fair question. We aren’t all walking around in togas, after all. However, the beauty of the Cross is its brutal honesty. It doesn’t sugarcoat pain. It stares it right in the face. It’s a reminder that we’re not alone in our struggles, no matter how isolated we might feel. And prayer? Well, that’s our lifeline to something bigger when we’re drowning in the “blah.”

Individual Battles: Prayers for Healing and Comfort

Let’s zoom in on the personal stuff. Illness knocking on your door? Grief like a constant rain cloud? Life can feel like one giant uphill climb. Offering prayers for healing, comfort, and peace doesn’t magically erase the hurt, but it’s a way to tap into a source of strength beyond ourselves. It’s like saying, “Hey, universe (or God, or whatever you believe in), I’m struggling here. Lend a hand?”

Think of it like this: imagine you’re carrying a ridiculously heavy backpack. You can try to lug it around all by yourself, or you can ask someone to help shoulder the load. Prayer is that “asking for help” moment.

Community Cries: Justice and Reconciliation

Now, let’s pan out and look at the bigger picture. Communities torn apart by injustice? Oppression casting a long, dark shadow? Violence making headlines every other day? It’s enough to make you want to crawl under a rock.

Praying for justice, reconciliation, and an end to suffering might feel like throwing a pebble into the ocean, but it’s a start. It’s a refusal to accept the status quo. It’s a way to stand in solidarity with those who are hurting, even if you can’t physically be there. It is like igniting a candle in the darkness. Even a tiny light can make a difference.

The Cross: A Framework for Understanding

So, how does the Cross fit into all this? It’s not a magic wand. But it is a powerful reminder that suffering doesn’t have the final word. It offers a framework for understanding that even in the midst of the worst, there is hope for redemption, for healing, for a new beginning.

It’s like having a compass in the wilderness. It might not get you out of the woods immediately, but it gives you a sense of direction, a reminder that you’re not completely lost. It is the framework that can help us navigate the hardest part of our life.

So, whether you’re a seasoned prayer warrior or just starting to explore the power of connecting with something bigger than yourself, I encourage you to give this prayer for the cross a try. See how it resonates with you, and let it guide you towards a deeper understanding of faith, sacrifice, and the enduring strength found in hope.