By fr. JLucas. Nov 7 2025

“hope does not disappoint us”

The last two weeks felt like an entire year—12 months, a million exhausting, draining hours. Yet, it was only fourteen days, a period that will resonate for a long time as the effort to restore Jamaica, specifically the Black River area, to its former state.

Hurricane Melissa completely upended our lives. We faced a terrifying, dragon-like threat, yet we were compelled to move forward. Every step seemed to be followed by ten steps backwards due to the ongoing devastation.

In the midst of this, there were individual tragedies and moments of despair: Brandon was found in the bathroom, not responding, he transitioned to the neither world. We had his candle lighting on Wednesday. 

Today I awoke to a call about my sister’s daughter being in the hospital …. Students returned to school on Tuesday seemingly numb, while teachers were heartbroken for their own families and all those suffering in Jamaica. Sometimes, you long to hide, but the overwhelming need for help is staring directly at you.

‎”Amidst life’s chaos, there are moments that make holding on worth it. A friend’s laughter, a comforting meal, or a serene sunset – these small joys breathe life into our souls. Even in darkness, they remind us of life’s beauty and worth.

‎Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but we find strength in:

‎- Kind words

‎- Shared laughter

‎- Peaceful moments

‎These beacons of hope pull us back from the brink.

‎They remind us:

‎- Every darkness will fade

‎- Light will reappear

‎- Life is worth fighting for

‎Hold on to these moments.

‎Cherish the small joys.

‎Find strength in life’s beauty.”

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Christian hope is “the theological virtue by which we desire the kingdom of heaven and eternal life as our happiness, placing our trust in Christ’s promises and relying not on our own strength, but on the help of the grace of the Holy Spirit” (CCC 1817).

Hebrews 6:19 – We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, …

Romans 5:5, which states that “hope does not disappoint us” because God’s love is poured into our hearts. 

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