How do we tell difficult stories? With pandemic burnout and empathy fatigue being very real for so many, it seems imperative that we focus on stories of hope.

Telling stories of hope is not difficult at Bridge of Hope because we experience them weekly. However, the truth is that behind each story is a reality in need of hope. There are times when our families just can’t seem to catch a break, somber moments in staff meetings when we realize we can’t keep up with all of the program inquiries, and the reality that relationship building can be really complex, vulnerable, and sometimes even painful.

As I reflected on this, I was reminded that I often speak of the Kingdom of God. I tell stories based on parables, just as Jesus modeled. And almost always, each parable involves losing:

  • The marriage feast where no one shows up.
  • The woman who lost her coin.
  • The seeds that fell on rocky and shallow soil.
  • The lost sheep.
  • The prejudice and violence that preceded the Samaritan’s encounter.
Remembering that Jesus practiced including the struggle, honoring why it matters for us to be invested in the work of manifesting God’s Kingdom, was a soul-boost for me. It reminded me that I don’t need to convince people that hope is real, but rather keep sharing, inviting and allowing God to stir people’s hearts to join in the work of building a Kingdom that creates with a medium of struggle, transforming it into something full of love and grace…when we say yes.

Beautifully written words by Chris Hoover Seidel, Executive Director of Bridge of Hope Harrisonburg-Rockingham
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