Reflection 1- Clouded and Unclear Dreams of Hope

(for Christian Moral Theology: Ethics of Hope in a Age of Crisis)

            In reading the first sections of Wright’s “Surprised by Hope” and Speth’s “America the Possible” I began to become overwhelmed by the complicated fog surrounding the concept of hope.  Dreams of happiness, eternally complete with a belief in heaven, include a prelude of success in life accompanied by a nice home, financial security, and family.  Yet this “American” dream is complicated and foggy – almost like a Monet oil painting.  What is it that one is suppose to be hoping for? 

Wright points out the crucial link between beliefs surrounding death and dying with a healthy and deep understanding of hope, especially to a Christian.  I agree with Wright that Americans today seem challenged to adequately articulate or express concrete beliefs around death.  Questions such as – do the dead go directly to heaven, what about bodily resurrection, could I have been reincarnated, or even are my ancestors really here to guide and protect me, greatly affect ones beliefs and actions during life.  Scripture and tradition (Jewish as well as Christian) give significant insight into many of these questions, and Wright’s discussion of scripture within its context sheds deeper light into possible meanings, such as the phrase “kingdom of heaven” or concept of resurrection. 

Personally, I find the imagery of a new creation very difficult in the literal way that Wright seems to describe.  I am much more comfortable with interpreting the verses in Revelation figuratively.  In light of the difficult reality Speth discusses of poverty, policy, social inequality, and especially failing healthcare (American and global) the result is an extreme woundedness of people.  It is out of that harsh reality in which I have always taken hope in a belief that death brings an end to these oppressive systems which seem inextricably tied to our bodies – their shape, color, gender, and physical needs.  Wright finds hope and answers in the resurrection of Christ.  I agree that Christians gain a small yet foggy view of how that resurrection brings renewal – however today I am left with more questions and confusion than comfort and hope.