“Then Eli answered, ‘Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him.’ And she said, ‘Let your servant find favor in your eyes.’ Then the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad.” (1 Samuel 1:17-18)
When Hannah returned from the temple, her sadness was gone. Externally nothing had changed. She still did not have a child. She was not even pregnant. But she believed the words of Eli the priest that God would give her a son. And therefore, she was no longer sad, but awaited the fulfillment of this promise with joy.
This is the essence of faith: believing something that is not yet visible. As Hebrews 11:1 phrases it, “faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Hannah was given a specific promise that she believed in. But in general, Christians are awaiting the return of Jesus Christ their Savior who will make an end to all sin and evil, transform the earthly bodies of his children to be like his own glorious body, and live with them on a new earth where righteousness reigns (Philippians 3:20, 2 Peter 3:13).
This is a glorious promise, but as of yet, we don’t see much of this coming Kingdom of peace and righteousness. For some Christians, life is really tough. They face persecution and hardships. But Jesus encourages us to “straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28).
Do you await Jesus’ return with joy?