Introduction

Good morning, beloved. Today, we gather in a world that often feels heavy—wars rage, families fracture, hearts ache, and uncertainty looms. It’s easy to look around and feel overwhelmed by the brokenness. But in the midst of this, God offers a gift that pierces the darkness: hope. Not a fleeting wish, but a living, unshakable hope anchored in His promises. Our key scriptures today, Romans 15:13 and Revelation 21:4, remind us that Christ’s return guarantees ultimate restoration and hope. Let’s explore how this hope sustains us now and points us to eternity.

Point 1: The Reality of a Broken World

We don’t need to look far to see brokenness. Natural disasters devastate communities. Injustice divides nations. Personal struggles—grief, addiction, loneliness—touch us all. The Bible doesn’t shy away from this reality. In John 16:33, Jesus says, “In this world you will have trouble.” He’s honest about the pain we face. Yet, He doesn’t stop there. He continues, “But take heart! I have overcome the world.” The brokenness is real, but it’s not the end of the story. God sees our tears, knows our struggles, and offers hope that endures.

• Illustration: Think of a shattered vase. It’s broken, but a skilled artisan can piece it back together, making it beautiful again. God is that artisan, working in our broken world to bring restoration.
• Application: Reflect on a challenge you’re facing. How does acknowledging it as part of this broken world, yet under God’s care, shift your perspective?

Point 2: The Source of Our Hope

Romans 15:13 says, “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.” Our hope doesn’t come from circumstances, wealth, or human solutions—it comes from the God of hope Himself. This hope is rooted in His character: faithful, unchanging, and sovereign. It’s fueled by the Holy Spirit, who reminds us of God’s promises. And it’s tied to Jesus’ victory over sin and death. Because He rose, we have assurance that He will return to make all things new.

• Illustration: Imagine a lighthouse standing firm in a storm. Waves crash, winds howl, but its light guides ships to safety. God’s promises are that lighthouse, guiding us through life’s storms.
• Application: Spend time this week reading God’s promises in Scripture (e.g., Psalm 23, Isaiah 40:31). Let them anchor your hope.

Point 3: The Promise of Restoration

Revelation 21:4 paints a breathtaking picture: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” This is the heart of our hope—Christ’s return will bring complete restoration. No more brokenness, no more pain, no more tears. God isn’t just patching things up; He’s creating a new heaven and new earth where righteousness dwells (2 Peter 3:13). This promise gives us strength to endure today, knowing tomorrow is secure in His hands.

• Illustration: A caterpillar in a cocoon seems trapped, but it’s being transformed into a butterfly. Our struggles are real, but God is transforming our world for glory.
• Application: When despair creeps in, pray, “Lord, remind me of Your promise to make all things new.” Let this hope shape your response to challenges.

Conclusion

Brothers and sisters, we live in a broken world, but we serve a God of hope. His promises in Romans 15:13 fill us with joy and peace now. His vision in Revelation 21:4 assures us of a future without pain. Christ’s return is our guarantee—He will restore all things. So, hold fast to this hope. Share it with others. Let it shine through your words, actions, and faith. As Hebrews 10:23 urges, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” Will you trust Him today? Will you live as a beacon of hope in this broken world?

Let’s pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for the hope we have in You. Fill us with Your Spirit, anchor us in Your promises, and help us shine Your light in a broken world. We long for the day when Jesus returns to make all things new. In His name, Amen.