Every twenty-five years, the Church celebrates a Jubilee Year. The year 2025 marks such a celebration, honoring the 2025th anniversary of Jesus’ birth. Pope Francis, in announcing “Pilgrims of Hope” as the theme for this Jubilee Year, wrote:
“We must fan the flame of hope that has been given us and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart, and far-sighted vision. The forthcoming Jubilee can contribute greatly to restoring a climate of hope and trust as a prelude to the renewal and rebirth that we so eagerly desire.”
As we embark on this holy year, let us take time to reflect on and pray with Scripture. These passages offer guidance and encouragement as we work to “fan the flame of hope that has been given to us”:
• Isaiah 40:31: “Those who hope in the Lord will be strengthened and will be able to run and walk without growing weary.”
• Psalm 62:5-6: ”…for my hope is from God. God alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress. I shall not be shaken.”
• Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
• Hebrews 10:23: “Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for God is faithful.”
• Romans 15:13: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in faith so that you overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
• Matthew 19:26: “Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man, this is impossible, but with God, all things are possible.’”
May this Jubilee Year inspire us to deepen our trust in God’s promises and rekindle the hope that sustains us, so that we may share that hope with the world.
