The basis of our hope, even creation’s hope (vs. 19 following), is an unseen reality that has not been seen or known since the entrance of Sin into the world. In fact, all that we do know or have seen is flawed by sin’s effects. Creation knows this better than us, but we are a part of creation and therefore know it as well. Yet, Paul asserts, in order to fully be found in the hope that is coming–glory, and in order to remain hopeful and expectant for its coming, we must be found in these present sufferings (8.17).
Yet they are not worth dwelling on or comparing to that which is coming. That doesn’t mean we aren’t suffering, or that we should stop groaning (note: the word in the passage is not synonymous with “complaining”) along with creation; even the spirit groans with us (vs. 26). But even suffering can be full of hope if we search it out. Subject, even to suffering and decay, is only a precursor to freedom. That is why even God’s curse on the earth in genesis 3 was made full of hope, because God knew that freedom–true freedom–would come. We are still living in the midst of the “would come.” But we’ve been given a downpayment of redemption–the self-sacrifice of Christ and the forgiveness of sins, the removal of the old self in favor of the new self, and the Holy Spirit of God who has been loosed within us to bring victory in the here and now of the “would come.”
So, we wait with hope for something yet to be revealed. But because it is such a great and unseen hope, steadfastness fills our bones, steadies our hearts, and firms our feet, and we eagerly and patiently await. Eager with expectation but patient with the sufferings that must come first. For even this is how Christ lived, and the Spirit comes to help us follow after Him, living the same path He walked for us. Let us do the same for others who are seeking Him. Let our lives, even our sufferings, be catalysts of change and hope. Let it be.
This morning, Romans 8 continues to work its way into my bones, a chapter full of hope, but only because of the chapters that surround it. Especially the previous chapter, with its vulnerability and honesty (see previous post). The words of chapter 8 keep freedom front and center, with hope surrounding it as we realize what we’ve been set free from & what we have been set free for. Today’s word is hope.
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“For I claim that the present season’s sufferings are not worthy to be compared to the coming glory, about to be revealed to us. (8.18)
“Also, we ourselves, having the first fruits of the spirit, even we are groaning within ourselves, eagerly awaiting adoption, the redemption of our bodies. For in hope we stand saved. But hope which is seen in not hope; for who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly await it with steadfastness.” (8.23-25)
