Kasisi Agricultural Training Centre helps rural communities in Zambia improve their livelihoods through organic farming. It also facilitates holistic and democratic rural development. Photo: Katrin Morales/ Jesuiten Weltweit
“Hope does not disappoint us.” (Romans 5:5, 2nd Reading)
The nature of God is such that hope will surely be fulfilled, as this passage reassures us. However, the challenges of life may lead us, at times, to give up. So how can the Scripture make this bold statement that hope does not disappoint? Because God has poured out his love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. Without the love of God and the Holy Spirit, it would be difficult for our hope not to be extinguished; hope does not rely on what we see or desire. Hope rooted in faith and in love is something that transcends us.
Hope is love that we give to others. The power of God’s love moves us to show compassion to people beyond our own circle of family and friends to the wider world, where many are suffering because of poverty, conflict, exploitation, and lack of access to basic human rights.
Among them are farmers in the Global South, who face not only financial but also ecological challenges because of climate change. In Zambia, the Jesuit-run Kasisi Agricultural Centre (KATC) is helping to sow hope by training small-scale farmers in organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices. The knowledge they gain helps improve their livelihood and helps them adapt to climate change. It is also a seed of hope that grows and multiplies in their communities.
Pause and reflect on what you have just read. Pick one word that stands out for you, either in the Scripture or the reflection.
What message does that word convey to you, if any?
I liked the connection made between sowing hope and KATC> Also loved the line about God pouring love into our hearts. Beautiful reflection, Carine. Thank you!