Hope Proof

[A little note of introduction:  In January, I spent some time contemplating and writing about the reference to generosity in Proverbs 31 (31.20).  My mind continues to linger on a question:  So often, my own generosity leans all too heavily on the levels of abundance I'm experiencing in my own life--material, emotional, spiritual, or otherwise.  Yet this tendency doesn't seem quite right.  Perhaps it's a misguided goal, but I wish to remain open-handed, regardless of my own state-of-heart.  The fact, though, is that I often find myself falling short.  Hence, this meditation.]

These HANDS betray my HOPE (or lack) 

as they

give or take away

cherish or discard

deliver comfortor inflict pain

offer or withhold

receive or reject

make available or snatch away

They can be clenched tightly or relaxed

extended

OPEN

Open hands are ready hands

willing to lend

eager to embrace

POISED to  provide

My own hands open most readily when they are

PRAYING

grateful for blessings

grieving shortcomings

needing strength

mourning disappointment

voicing questions

pleading for others

relinquishing self

Willing to acknowledge lack
yet

unafraid to anticipate Response

Hands that pray and also

EXPECT

watch for grace

anticipate provision

imagine redemption
look for strength

wait for joy

trust mercy

believe truth

HOPE

Hands          

                Open            

                            Praying 

                                             Expectantly