I just learned the details of the Martyrdom of the Sisters of Mercy in Yemen. I feel sick. It is tempting to live in lovely denial, whistling “don’t worry, be happy,” On the other hand one could simply relax into the chronic anxiety of our time, despairing because of the facts.

A couple of years ago, I began to end my correspondence with the phrase, “In hope, in spite of the facts.” I want to look honestly and carefully at the facts as hideous as they are AND live in hope.  Why,  Jesus promised never to leave us or forsake us, even to the ends of the earth (including Yemen).  Let us embrace hope, in spite of the facts.

  ©  John Sewell+