Webster’s Dictionary defines “Hope” as a feeling of expectation and desire, but the Bible defines “Hope” as having joy and something that anchors the soul. Hebrews 6:19 says “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” I have always known what this verse meant and had heard it many times but about a year ago, this verse changed meaning for me. This verse is a verse that has held a special place in my heart for the past year and one that God has challenged me with over and over.

On March 25th, 2016 (Good Friday), a lot of lives changed, including mine. My youth minister and his wife experienced a loss that no parent should have to experience, yet they had two things to hold onto, Jesus and hope. The most important being Jesus, of course. Nick and Whitney have defined Hope in the past year like I have never seen before. They have continued to run after Jesus even on their hardest days when most people would assume giving up would be the easiest thing to do. They have been such an inspiration to me and encouraged me to find hope in Jesus in the hardest of times.

Ever since that day, I wondered why God would allow this to happen to such good people but that question has since been answered over the past year. It was answered when the Hope Box Ministry was started to bring hope to families who were going through similar circumstances. It was answered when the glider was donated to AnMed for families to sit in. It was answered when I realized that even though Tate’s passing was and still is tragic for many, that he is bringing Hope to many. Lastly, it was answered when I found out Whitney was pregnant with Charlie. That boy will be so loved. Jesus is bringing Hope to people through Tate and it is such a beautiful thing.

To me, Hope is finding joy in the hard times and relying on Jesus for your strength. Throughout this past year, I have grown closer to Jesus and found new meaning in Hope. I hope that after reading this, you may even find new meaning in Hope through a story that has impacted many lives. I will probably never not think of Tate when I hear the word “Hope” and honestly, I’m forever grateful for that.

That is what Hope means to me.