We are in the middle of a Sermon Series on Hope In Anxious Times. As we approach this election season, the anxiety many of us feel is palpable. With threats of fascism, authoritarianism, rampant misinformation, and deepening political discord, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, even hopeless. Our challenge with this series is how we can, as Unitarian Universalists, find hope in such times?
While we are digging deep in our services, I want to remind us of some of our core tenets of Unitarian Universalism to ground us. Our faith calls us to remember that hope is not passive—it is a practice. Here are a few ways we can nurture hope amidst the storm:
- Grounding in Our Values
At the core of Unitarian Universalism are values like justice, equity, and compassion. These aren’t just ideals; they are guiding principles that remind us that we are part of a larger, loving community that strives to build a better world. Even when the world around us seems dark, these values shine as a beacon of light, reminding us that change is possible. - Taking Action
Hope is not simply a feeling—it is something we cultivate through action. Whether it’s volunteering, advocating for just policies, or reaching out to those who are hurting, each small action contributes to the larger work of creating a more compassionate and equitable world. When we feel overwhelmed by the immensity of the challenges we face, taking even a small step can help ground us in a sense of purpose and possibility. - Trusting in Community
As UUs, we are not alone. Our covenantal community offers us both solace and strength. In these challenging times, leaning on one another—whether through sharing stories, holding space for grief, or celebrating small victories—can provide the emotional and spiritual sustenance we need to move forward with courage. - Resisting Despair with Resilience
Despair is a natural response to difficult times, but it doesn’t have to define us. History shows us that authoritarianism, oppression, and lies can be defeated. Our ancestors fought for justice, even when the odds seemed insurmountable. We can draw strength from their resilience, knowing that we too are capable of working toward a more just and loving world. - Looking to the Future with Faith
Unitarian Universalism teaches us to have faith in the future, not because the future is guaranteed to be easy, but because we believe in the power of human goodness and collective action. We can choose to invest in that future through our activism, our compassion, and our commitment to truth and justice. Even in uncertain times, our faith reminds us that love has the final word.
In this election season, as the rhetoric becomes more divisive and the challenges more acute, let us remain steadfast in our hope. Together, grounded in our values and connected through our community, we can be agents of hope and change in a world that so desperately needs it.