365 Project 2011

365 Project Day 282: Gathering Hope

October 9, 2011

Handful of Hope

Canon 5D Mark ll, 100mm 2.8 macro, 3.2 aperture, 1/160 shutter, 160 ISO

When life falls apart and away like leaves in the frigid wind, do not despair. His plan, his life for you is far from over. There is hope. He has left it for you like a trail back to Him. A beacon in the impending darkness. It hangs in clusters in the branches above your head, and falls to the ground for you to gather. It is the seed for spring’s glory, for life that is waiting, huddled deep in brilliant, secret places.

You may gather it by the handful, and place it in hungry pockets to save for the barren nights. It flutters up colorful around your feet, reminding you that hope is eternal, and the One who sows it ever-loving and compassionate. He knows the pain of grief, the sadness of loss, and the singular feeling of loneliness. Your God is not one so far removed from you that He does not know. He has walked this fallen earth, worn our flesh, and carried our burdens.

With a scarlet cord He has woven us into His own heart. You can trust in the hope He offers, and find traces of it everywhere, if you but open your eyes.

Psalm 62:5 ~”Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.”

Clusters of Hope

Colors at Our Feet

Eternal Reminder

Whispers of Encouragement

For Next Year

Romans 5:5 ~ “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”


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4 Comments

  • Reply Marie Nease October 9, 2011 at 6:15 pm

    As a single-again woman going through many trials right now, including losing my home I bought three years ago, being unemployed and alone, I NEEDED this today. Thank you. I found comfort through your words and your photos.

    • Reply maryanne October 9, 2011 at 9:22 pm

      Oh, Marie. I am so sorry you are going through so much. I pray for comfort and provision for you and your family.
      Mary Anne

  • Reply Anne H October 9, 2011 at 9:51 pm

    So very comforting & encouraging Mary Anne… .. You are so sweet,, and Your blogs are a Blessing ! ! This must be One of your Many Spiritual Gifts!!!! :)) I love to encourage and share hope in the Lord.. . We need to support and encourage each other always. 2 Corinth. 13:11 Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you ..Blessings Anne! : )

  • Reply HopeOnHope October 17, 2011 at 12:43 pm

    This is beautiful!

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