The Colors of Hope

The second of twelve books I’m reading this year on the journey of hope is The Colors of Hope: Becoming People of Mercy, Justice, and Love by Richard Dahlstrom. Some of the books I’ll read will talk about the meaning of hope, others will talk about the hope God provides, but this book takes it another step forward in sharing how we are to become agents of hope to the world. Dahlstrom calls us beyond ourselves and challenges us to rise above the needlessly divisive debates of our culture

The author describes hope using the language and imagery of an artist. He calls us to be “artisans of hope” who paint with the colors of hope. One of the lines in the book says it well, “Paint with the colors of hope by stepping into the story God is writing across the canvas of history.”

It’s a beautifully poetic line. But what, exactly, does it mean? Going into a full explanation in this short review isn’t possible, so again I’m going to quote lines from the book so you can taste a sampling of insights.

“Trusting in God’s active involvement in our daily lives, we’re invited to learn dependence on the Creator for provision, direction, and protection. Then, from this place of security, we’re invited to live outwardly, finding creative ways to spill hope into the world. I ponder what it might be like to become someone who embodies this substantive hope, able to paint the vibrant colors of God’s good reign onto this world’s canvas.”

“…God has shown us that hope, in its million different forms, always springs from three primary colors: justice, mercy, and love.”

“In this world where daily we hear voices competing for our loyalties and the investment of our time, money, and emotions, it’s profoundly encouraging to know that God has boiled it down. God has made it simple. God has given us three colors to acquire and nurture: justice, mercy, intimacy with him. Everything good and beautiful, hopeful and life-giving, joyful and wise will be created by blending these colors. Knowing them and learning how to blend them together are what enable us to fulfill our calling as artisans of hope. Let’s get started.”

This is an encouraging and uplifting book. It makes clear just how powerful hope can be while honoring the many forms hope can be personalized in our daily life. As we walk along the journey of hope this year, it reminds us of the importance of setting aside our own agenda and embracing the wonder of justice, mercy and love for others.