Hope Generates New Life

In the Gospel of John, Jesus is quoted, “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). Jesus’ life points us to the hope of new life for ourselves. 

So, what does this life mean? 

For womanist theologian, Monica Coleman, life through the salvific way of Jesus, means that she is “making a way out of no way.” For her, with God’s presence not only is she able to survive, but also she finds meaning and quality of life, and experiences liberation. Life for Coleman is making a way and creating new possibilities, when it seemed like there was no way. 

As I reflect on Coleman, I think about life as living into the hope of Jesus. Hope generates new life. New life does not mitigate suffering or transcend pain, but breathes hope in the midst of it all. New life offers healing, sustenance, rejuvenation. New life springs imagination, creativity, and transformation. New life brings people together to envision new possibilities. New life nourishes us to be agents of peace and justice. 

Jesus’ life was a testimony to this new life. Jesus came so that we could have this liberated life, and have it abundantly. 

Today, take some time to reflect on what gives you hope. Ask, how can the hope of Jesus breathe life (new possibilities) into your everyday actions? Challenge: Instead of just thinking about new life, try processing life and hope in a new creative outlet. Maybe this means reflecting on these questions while painting, talking with other friends, stretching, picking up trash around your neighborhood, sitting under a tree, etc. 

(Coleman, Monica A. Making a Way Out of No Way: A Womanist Theology. 2008.)