Blog

By: Litz Main

Recently, I learned something that has profoundly shaped the way I think about hope. In Hebrew, the word for hope, Tikvah, carries a meaning that is both powerful and tangible. It isn’t just an abstract feeling or wishful thinking—it’s a picture of an unbreakable cord, a rope that tethers us securely to something greater than ourselves. This imagery has deeply impacted me, especially during challenging moments. When I think of that strong and unyielding cord, I am reminded that my faith is rooted in our Lord, who is our ultimate source of hope. 

This understanding of hope has been transformative for me. It reframes hope as something enduring, not a fleeting feeling but a steady force that holds us in place even during life’s storms. As Christians, we are called to hold fast to this cord and to offer its strength to others. This tether, rooted in Christ, gives us the courage to move forward, knowing that we are never alone. 

Hope is a recurring theme in Scripture, appearing more than 150 times throughout the Bible. From the Psalms that cry out, “Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord” (Psalm 31:24), to the reassurance in Romans that “hope does not disappoint us” (Romans 5:5), the message is clear: hope is an essential part of our faith journey. It connects us to God’s promises and inspires us to be His instruments of hope for others. 

At Catholic Charities of Central and Northern Missouri (CCCNMO), this is the mission we strive to live out each day. We work to be a tangible source of hope for those facing uncertainty—offering food to the hungry, welcoming the stranger, and supporting individuals and families as they navigate life’s challenges. Our work is rooted in the understanding that hope is not passive. It’s an active, living force that requires us to step forward in faith and love. 

But this mission isn’t something we can accomplish alone. It is powered by the incredible generosity and compassion of people like you. Together, we are stronger. Together, we embody tikvah—that unbreakable cord—by coming together as a community of faith to serve those in need. Your support, whether through your time, talents, or treasures, is the lifeline that allows us to extend hope to those who feel forgotten or abandoned. 

This year, we’ve seen the power of hope in action. Volunteers have stepped up to serve in countless ways, donors have shared their resources to sustain our programs, and our community has continued to show what it means to walk in faith and solidarity. Each act of kindness and generosity strengthens the tether, making it unbreakable for those who need it most. 

As we prepare for the new year, I want to invite you to join us in this mission of hope. There are so many ways to get involved. You can volunteer your time, share your skills, make a financial gift, or simply keep the families we serve in your prayers. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes hope tangible and reminds those on the margins that they are not alone. 

Hope is not just a concept; it’s a call to action. When we come together as a community, bound by faith and love, we reflect Christ’s light in the world. Let us step into the new year with hearts full of hope, ready to be the tether that connects others to the promise of something better. 

Thank you for your unwavering support and for being part of this mission. Together, we are the hands and feet of Christ, making tikvah—that unbreakable cord—a reality for those we serve.