Farmer of Hearts - How Not to Miss God’s Voice

In his message for the 38th World Youth Day, Pope Francis described the virtue of hope in this way:
“Christian hope is no facile optimism, no placebo for the credulous: it is the certainty, rooted in love and faith, that God never abandons us and remains faithful to his promise: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil, for you are with me” (Psalm 23:4).

In daily life, we often hear people use the words "hope" or "optimism" in conversation. But what is the difference between the two? And how is Christian hope, that is, hope as a virtue, different from the everyday concept of "hope"?

Many people tend to confuse hope with optimism, but they are not the same. The main difference is that optimism is a general expectation of positive outcomes, often based on favourable conditions or outlooks. Hope, on the other hand, inspires action and carries the power to make things better. Optimism is a passive state of mind, while hope motivates us to act and to set goals.

The world often defines "hope" as the desire for something attainable in this life, such as success, health, or a comfortable lifestyle. But Christian hope, the theological virtue, goes far beyond earthly desires. It centers on the reality of heaven and eternal life with God. Even though the things of this world are temporary and imperfect, our ultimate fulfillment is found in eternal union with God.

Pope Francis continued in his message:
Christian hope is not a denial of sorrow and death; it is the celebration of the love of the risen Christ, who is always at our side, even when he seems far from us. “Christ himself is our great light of hope and our guide in the night, because he is ‘the bright morning star’” (Christus Vivit, 33).

Christian hope is not based on wishful thinking, but on the very nature of God, who is faithful, merciful, and almighty. As Scripture reminds us in Numbers 23:19: “God is not a human being, that he should lie, or a mortal, that he should change his mind. Has he promised, and will he not do it?    Has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?” Because of God’s nature, we can trust His promises, even in situations that seem impossible. This trust is the foundation of Christian hope.

As Christians, our hope is ultimately directed toward heaven. We believe that this earthly life is a pilgrimage, and our true home is in heaven, with our Father. This kind of hope shapes our worldview, helping us to look beyond the present and focus on eternity. As it says in Colossians 3:2: “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”

Our anchor of hope is Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, He opened the way to heaven for us. Our hope rests on His sacrifice and the promise of eternal life. This anchor holds us steady during the storms of life, because we know our eternal future is secure in the faithfulness of Jesus.

To be a Christian filled with hope does not mean to be blindly optimistic in all things, but to have a deep and unwavering trust in God's promises, to firmly believe in the reality of heaven, and to entrust our soul to Jesus Christ. This kind of hope transforms our lives, giving us strength, peace, and purpose as we journey toward our eternal home.

Reflection

Are you more of an optimist, or someone who is truly filled with hope? When facing adversity, do you respond passively, or take action with a positive mindset?

What is the foundation of your hope? Earthly things, or heavenly realities? Are you full of hope in general sense or full of the virtue of hope?

After today’s reflection, in what ways might your understanding of Christian hope need adjusting?

Today’s Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, thank You for once again revealing to me the true meaning of hope. I know that the worries and temptations of this world often turn my gaze toward earthly desires, making me forget that You are the true rock of my hope. It is through Your death and resurrection that the path to heaven has been opened for me.

Please strengthen my faith, so that my hope may also become more solid, anchored not in earthly treasures, but in the treasures of heaven. Teach me, Lord, and gently remind me to set my mind on things above, not on things that are on earth.

Lord Jesus, help me to recognize You as my light of hope in this life, and lead me through the darkness, step by step, into the light and ever closer to You.

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The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding Hope in God’s Kingdom” team, including FLL staff and volunteers.
Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Writer: Paul Yeung
Project Manager: Michael Lam, Rosa Tse
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: J. Johnson
Mandarin Narrator: C. Zhou
Audio Editors: Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Arnold Chan, Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee
Graphics: Francis Lai, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse

Theme Music:

"3 MINUTES RELAXATION MUSIC | 4K Scenic View of Tuscany" by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist

“Sea of Memory” by Aakash Gandhi https://www.youtube.com/@88keystoeuphoria

I hope that yesterday’s reflection has helped you to revisit the promises Christ has made to us. Among the four main promises of Christ, most people may focus on or most long for the promises of “salvation” and “eternal life”, while the promises of “God is with us” and “the Holy Spirit” may receive less attention. Let us reflect more deeply on this.

Everyone has their own understanding and feelings about “eternal life” or “going to heaven.” Of course, no one has a concrete concept of it, but our impressions often revolve around a subjective desire, to eventually enjoy the joy of eternal life. This is likely one of the main reasons many people “believe in God”. Another is the hope of reuniting with loved ones in our heavenly home. However, the meaning of “eternal life” goes far beyond reunion with family or simply avoiding hell. At its core, it is the hope to be forever with God, who created us and loves us to the end.

Sadly, what we often pursue are only the benefits God gives us, not God Himself. Therefore, when it comes to Christ’s promises, we tend to focus on our own benefits rather than seeing from God’s perspective. Our eyes are more often fixed on the gifts we desire to receive, rather than on the Giver who gives them to us. When we centre our attention on what we want, we easily overlook the gift God has prepared for us. If our view of “heaven” and “hell” is limited to shallow concepts of reward and punishment, eternal happiness and eternal damnation, we miss the greatest gift God has prepared for us, which is God Himself! This gap in expectations will seriously affect how we live our present life and, in the end, influence our ultimate destiny.

So while we long for “eternal life”,  we must not forget to focus our thoughts and efforts on how to make the most of our earthly pilgrimage and build a relationship with God, who has given Himself to us. The other two main promises of Christ, namely, "God is with us" and "the Holy Spirit" become crucial. These promises not only help us live this life well, but also realign our attitudes and expectations toward eternal life and our relationship with God. Let us begin by exploring the promise that “God is with us.”

Since our ultimate relationship is with God, we must begin building that intimate connection with Him here in this life. We need to learn and practice how to accompany God, fostering a habit of being with Him, and a willingness and desire to be accompanied by Him. This is something we need to adapt to, not only because we cannot see or touch God with our physical senses, but also because we are often reluctant to spend time with God. Another potential barrier is our unwillingness to let others, even God, enter into our space or challenge our sense of control. We fear that God’s presence may “disrupt” our plans, and this leads us, consciously or unconsciously, to avoid moments of solitude with Him. But we must know that God’s intervention is an intervention of grace. If we insist on taking control and refuse to let God into our comfort zone, the Holy Spirit cannot guide our lives, and we’ll be left navigating with our own flawed internal compass. This opens the door for the enemy to attack.

If we truly believe that God is almighty and deeply concerned with our greatest good, then we should not resist His presence in our lives. Rather, we should allow this loving God to be involved in every aspect of our lives and decisions, big and small. Let us not leave this poor and patient God waiting forever at the door, unable to share life’s joys and sorrows with us. Remember, when God enters our life, it is like the blessing Jesus gave to the newlyweds at the wedding in Cana!

The promise that “God is with us” is like the presence of heaven on earth. It allows us a foretaste of the infinite sweetness of being united with God in heaven, and stirs in us a deeper longing for eternal life.

Reflection

Does your understanding of heaven and hell remain limited to the concepts of reward and punishment, eternal happiness and eternal punishment? What insight or change has today’s reflection brought to you?

Can you recall a time in your life when you shut God out? Can you sense how God might have felt in those moments?

In prayer, feel God’s presence with you. With an open heart, listen to what He wants to say to you, and how He is inviting you.

Today’s Prayer

My Heavenly Father, I thank You for the opportunity You gave me today, which helped me realize how much my concepts of heaven and hell, and my understanding of eternal life and eternal punishment, still need to be refined. This reflection has made me aware that I was not fully focused on my relationship with You, but on my own benefit!

I feel deeply saddened and sorry for the hurt my selfish mindset has caused You. Abba Father, I am truly sorry!

I ask myself: Isn’t everything I have a gift from You?  Aren’t You far more precious than anything I possess?

I am shocked by my self-centeredness and how it has led me to reject Your presence.

Thank You for showing me again in my prayer today that You desire to be with me forever. I wish my heart would be softened by Your love again, I am willing… and I desire Your presence and Your companionship. May I cherish every moment with You on this earthly journey!

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The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding Hope in God’s Kingdom” team, including FLL staff and volunteers.
Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Writer: Paul Yeung
Project Manager: Michael Lam, Rosa Tse
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: J. Johnson
Mandarin Narrator: C. Zhou
Audio Editors: Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Arnold Chan, Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee
Graphics: Francis Lai, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse

Theme Music:

"3 MINUTES RELAXATION MUSIC | 4K Scenic View of Tuscany" by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist

“Sea of Memory” by Aakash Gandhi https://www.youtube.com/@88keystoeuphoria

Throughout our retreat, we have repeatedly emphasized that hope is built upon our trust in the promises of Christ. But what exactly do these promises represent? What do they mean to you personally? What comes to mind first when you hear about them?

Most of us may first think of eternal life or salvation… but let us explore these promises more deeply.

The promises of Christ can generally be categorized into four key aspects. The first is that He is with us. From the beginning of creation, from the Old Testament to the New Testament, God has always desired to be with humans He created. This longing of God was fully manifested in the life of Jesus. His coming fulfilled the words spoken by the prophet: "They shall name him Emmanuel, which means 'God is with us.'" (Matthew 1:23)

On the night before His Passion, Jesus, as the High Priest, prayed to the Father for the faithful: "As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us…” (John 17:21) Jesus continued: “I in them and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. Father, I desire that those also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am.…" (cf. John 17:20-26)

Before ascending to heaven, Jesus reaffirmed this promise to His disciples: "And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20)

This unceasing desire of the Father, to be with us every day and to be one with us, is clearly revealed in Jesus’ prayer to the Heavenly Father. But the core of this promise is not just about His presence among us, but that He assures us that He will provide everything we need, granting us grace and strength to fulfill the mission He has entrusted to us.

The second main promise of Christ is Salvation. This promise requires us to accept Jesus as our Saviour with a repentant heart, and to be reconciled with God through the cleansing of the Sacrament of Baptism, so that we can become the children of God.

The third main promise of Christ is the promise of eternal life. Once we have received God’s salvation, we are no longer under the power of sin and death. Jesus, as our Mediator, reunites us with the Father and allows us to partake in the divine life of the Holy Trinity. He shares with us the glory He received from the Father, so that we, as believers, may share in God’s eternal life through Jesus.

The fourth main promise of Christ is the promise of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is our guide and protector, leading us to the Truth of Christ. As the Spirit of Truth, He not only watches over us but also grants us spiritual gifts that sanctify us and empower us to live a holy life, as well as to respond to the call of our Heavenly Father.  Through this process, we will be transformed by the Holy Spirit and become more like Christ, restoring our original image as created by the Father.

Our understanding and trust in these promises of Christ become the source and the true foundation of our hope. By embracing them, we gain strength in our close relationship with God and will discover the purpose and direction of our lives.

Reflection

Do you truly believe in the promises of Christ? Do you believe in them deep within your heart, or do you believe it in your head, intellectually? Please share with God in prayer what you still have reservations about.

Do you long for the "Promises of Christ"? What do you most yearn for?

In your prayer, invite the Holy Spirit to enlighten you on how to embrace these promises of Christ in your life.

Today’s Prayer

Dear Lord Jesus, I am grateful for the insights the Holy Spirit has given me today. I now understand that Your incarnation was not only to free me from the bondage of sin and eternal punishment, but also to bring me new hope, showing me that the Father’s plan for me is filled with promise and purpose, giving me a future with hope.

Thank You for Your promises! For being present in my life, for the gift of salvation and eternal life, for Your promise of sharing Your glory with me, and for the most precious gift, Your Holy Spirit. All of these reveal the depth of Your love for me in the most tender way.

I realize that You want to ensure that I have adequate protection and support during my pilgrimage on earth, and that I am protected from harm by my enemies. Today, I really felt it... I felt that You have held nothing back for my sake! You have poured out Your heart and love for me completely.

Lord Jesus, let me say to You once again: I love You!

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The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding Hope in God’s Kingdom” team, including FLL staff and volunteers.
Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Writer: Paul Yeung
Project Manager: Michael Lam, Rosa Tse
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: J. Johnson
Mandarin Narrator: C. Zhou
Audio Editors: Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Arnold Chan, Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee
Graphics: Francis Lai, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse

Theme Music:

"3 MINUTES RELAXATION MUSIC | 4K Scenic View of Tuscany" by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist

“Sea of Memory” by Aakash Gandhi https://www.youtube.com/@88keystoeuphoria

There was a passage in the reflection from two days ago:
"God desires that this true love continue to be passed on through us. What is required is an unwavering hope, a hope that teaches us to be like Mother Mary, who does not question but simply believes, obeys, and follows, all the way to the foot of Christ’s Cross." This statement may cause discomfort, disagreement, or even rejection. Don’t ask anything, just believe, and even obey unto death. What kind of reasoning is this?

Why do we associate "hope" with the cross? Wasn’t crucifixion one of the cruelest punishments in the Roman Empire, used to execute criminals and suppress dissent? Wasn’t there great injustice and even wrongful convictions behind it?

Indeed, in human relationships, we often have a mindset of "speaking out against injustice." We strive to prevent unfairness, and when injustice occurs, we want to seek justice for the victims. This is a natural reaction, as we all have an innate sense of conscience. However, it is not God’s way.

We noticed that neither Jesus nor Mother Mary protested against the injustice that Jesus suffered. Instead, they silently accepted it, revealing that God’s perspective and actions differ from ours.

When feelings of unfairness take root in our hearts, they fuel our anger. This anger blinds us, allowing us to see only the surface of things, preventing us from handling unfair situations with a heart of mercy. When we are consumed by righteous anger, we act against people rather than addressing the issue itself. In the end, we resort to harming others to solve problems, falling into the devil’s trap!

We must understand that if we firmly believe in the promise of eternal life and trust that our God is just, then we will recognize that fairness is not determined by earthly outcomes. Instead, we will be willing to leave the final judgment to our Lord Jesus Christ. Conversely, if our short-sightedness drives us to fight for fairness in this world, we may fall into the devil’s trap. The devil seeks to rob us of our peace and hope in the pursuit of fairness, stealing away our merciful hearts.

Let us recall the parable of the prodigal son. The elder son, feeling his father was unfair, became estranged from both his father and younger brother. He sacrificed family harmony and unity, allowing himself to be consumed by anger and resentment. The devil thus successfully led the elder son away from his father.

In contrast, Jesus suffered the greatest evil in human history and was condemned in the most unjust trial before being executed. Yet, He first pleaded with the Father for those who killed Him:
"Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34) These were the first words Jesus spoke from the cross!

If God, out of love for us, was willing to give up His own right to justice, shouldn't we also learn from Jesus’ example on the cross to overcome the devil’s temptations?

Ultimately, what most often causes us to stumble in this world is not misfortune or suffering itself, but whether we perceive a situation as fair. The devil wants us to believe that God is unfair to us! Only by having true hope in the Kingdom of Heaven and eternal life can we see through the devil’s deception and know that from an eternal perspective, God is the only one who is truly fair and trustworthy!

Reflection

Are you someone who pursues fairness in everything in life? Have you ever lost your inner peace due to anger over unfairness?

Do you think God is unfair? Do you trust that He holds the authority of final judgment and that He is absolutely fair?

Through today’s reflection, examine whether you have true hope. In what areas do you need to make adjustments?

Today's Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me the opportunity today to reflect on the question of fairness in life. You have helped untie some of the knots in my heart. I have been confused and angered by the unfairness in this world. Confusion makes me feel lost, anger makes me hard-hearted, and I feel disgust and hatred towards those who create unfairness!

But what surprised me even more today is realizing that my anger stems from doubting whether You are a fair God. I have even blamed You for the painful experiences in my life, thinking that You ignored me or treated me unfairly.

This makes me feel deeply ashamed. I am ashamed to stand before You. Please deliver me from this state. Do not let me drown in guilt or lack faith in You. Thank You for showing me Your loving face again! Please soften my heart and let Your merciful eyes restore my hope in You!

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The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding Hope in God’s Kingdom” team, including FLL staff and volunteers.
Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Writer: Paul Yeung
Project Manager: Michael Lam, Rosa Tse
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: J. Johnson
Mandarin Narrator: C. Zhou
Audio Editors: Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Arnold Chan, Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee
Graphics: Francis Lai, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse

Theme Music:

"3 MINUTES RELAXATION MUSIC | 4K Scenic View of Tuscany" by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist

“Sea of Memory” by Aakash Gandhi https://www.youtube.com/@88keystoeuphoria

On the fourth day of our retreat, we mentioned that "Pilgrimage is a time of conversion and renewal. A pilgrimage signifies not just a journey but a purposeful movement toward a destination and a higher goal.”

If life becomes stagnant, it turns into a dead pool of water. It can no longer be called a journey, let alone a pilgrimage. Such a life is meaningless, and it would be in vain that Jesus died for us and did everything He has done for us.

Yesterday, we discussed that the true driving force that propels us forward in life is the virtue of hope. You may ask yourself, "Is that really true?"

Indeed it is easy to argue against this point because when life is smooth and trouble-free, we can move forward without needing much hope. Isn’t that so? But do not forget, although it is easy to move forward when things are going well, it is also easy to lose direction. In good times, we are more inclined to choose the broad and easy path rather than the narrow path.

On the other hand, when we experience adversity, facing trials and hardships, hope shows its power. The driving force that moves us forward does not come from ourselves but from the foundation behind hope, that is, the "anchor", the "cornerstone", which is the promise of Christ. Also, because when we are in adversity, our own abilities are limited, we learn not to rely on our strength but instead to rely on the power and grace of the Holy Spirit.

During difficult times, when we walk with God through our struggles, hope draws us closer to Him. It helps us focus more on the meaning of life, stay vigilant, find our sense of direction, and better understand the meaning of the narrow path. This makes it easier for us to choose the path that aligns with God's will.

This is the Way of the Cross! It is not a road of punishment from God but rather the ultimate proof of His boundless love for us! Because the one who suffers most is not us; it is God. The one who pays the greatest price is not us; it is Him! In the end, the Way of the Cross is not a path that God forces upon us, but one that He first chose for our sake! Mother Mary also chose it! The saints throughout history chose it as well! Now, it is time for us to make our choice, for no one else can make this choice for us, not even God!

Clearly, hope does not merely push us forward; it also helps us shift our focus from self-centeredness and self-reliance to centering our lives on Jesus Christ and depending on the help of the Holy Spirit. Hope helps us fix our gaze on the ultimate destination of our earthly pilgrimage, our heavenly home and eternal life. Because of this, hope can be seen as the navigation system of our life and the compass guiding us to our final destination.

If we can grasp the true meaning of hope, we will better understand why God chose the Way of the Cross as His expression of love for us.

Reflection

Please look back at your life. In which situations did you need hope the most to guide your way? What was the source of your hope in those moments?

During your darkest days, did hope shift your focus, drawing you closer to God and helping you rely more on His power and guidance? In prayer, reflect on how hope has brought you closer to Him.

After today’s reflection, do you better understand why God chose the Way of the Cross as His expression of love for you? Will you also choose this path in response to His love?

Today’s Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for today’s reflection, which has helped me better understand why You ask me to take up my cross and follow You. You first chose the way of the Cross, allowing me to recognize the true face of love, to understand what true love is, and to learn how to love.

Please help me not only to be willing to carry my cross but to embrace it, for it represents Your love for me. Through this newfound understanding, I want to learn to appreciate the Cross and cherish the opportunity to draw closer to You through it.

Help me, Lord, that when I face adversity again, I may steadfastly choose You and willingly accept the cross You have tailor-made for me. May I be sincerely grateful for Your companionship on the Way of the Cross.

--------------------

The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding Hope in God’s Kingdom” team, including FLL staff and volunteers.
Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Writer: Paul Yeung
Project Manager: Michael Lam, Rosa Tse
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: J. Johnson
Mandarin Narrator: C. Zhou
Audio Editors: Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Arnold Chan, Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee
Graphics: Francis Lai, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse

Theme Music:

"3 MINUTES RELAXATION MUSIC | 4K Scenic View of Tuscany" by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist

“Sea of Memory” by Aakash Gandhi https://www.youtube.com/@88keystoeuphoria

Yesterday’s reflection affirmed an undeniable truth: even the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of the Son of God, was not exempt from experiencing suffering and trials in this world. She, too, had to carry her cross daily and follow Christ.

In fact, even Jesus Himself, being the Son of God, the most noble King, the revered rabbi, and the long-awaited Messiah, did not choose to save humanity with His power, glory, or majesty. Instead, He chose to stand before His creation, before His devoted followers, before His beloved apostles and women disciples, and even before His enemies, stripped of His garments, scourged to the brink of death, and ultimately crucified, naked and humiliated, for all to see. Imagine yourself in His place—what would that feel like?

The way of the Cross is the way of God's love. The Father chose it. Jesus chose it. Mother Mary chose it. The saints throughout history have chosen it. What about you?

This is the true face of love, completely unmasked, laid bare before us. God does not seek to prove to us how much He loves us; rather, He longs for us to experience His unreserved love. This love is what leads us back to Him. His ultimate purpose is not for Himself but for us, for our salvation and eternal happiness. This is a true loving relationship, and it cannot be conveyed in any other way. This is also the price of true love!

God desires that this true love continue to be passed on through us. What is required is an unwavering hope, a hope that teaches us to be like Mother Mary, who does not question but simply believes, obeys, and follows, all the way to the foot of Christ’s Cross.

In his message for the thirty-eighth World Youth Day, Pope Francis quoted a poem on hope by the French writer Charles Péguy. The beginning of the poem beautifully portrays the relationship between the three theological virtues, faith, hope, and love, as three sisters journeying together. Let us now savour the meaning of this poem:

“Hope, the little one, walks beside her two older sisters, practically unseen.
〔……〕
Yet she, the little one, drags everything along.
Because Faith only sees what exists.
And Charity only loves what exists.
But Hope loves what will be.
〔……〕
She is the one who makes the others keep walking;
She is the one who leads them on,
and makes them all walk together”
(The Portico of the Mystery of the Second Virtue, 1977, pp. 17-19).

This poem offers a delicate yet profound depiction of the interplay between the three theological virtues of faith, hope, and love. It makes us realize that although hope may seem small and insignificant in the eyes of many, it carries the crucial role of leading and driving both faith and love. This poem also invites us to re-examine our attitude towards and respect for hope, because by neglecting it, we will ultimately lose faith, love, and even our relationship with Jesus, who gave everything for us!

Reflection

Imagine yourself in the place of Jesus. Try to experience with empathy what He endured, bearing the Cross, suffering humiliation, and dying for us on the Cross while others watched and despised Him.

Can you recognize the importance of hope in the lives of Jesus and Mother Mary? Imagine if their foundation of hope had been shaken, what would have been the result?

After today’s reflection, do you have a deeper understanding of hope? How will you strengthen your hope?

Today’s Prayer

Dear Jesus, where do I even begin… I know that Your love for me is real, unconditional, and immeasurable. Through today’s meditation, I can feel more deeply what it was like for You to die on the Cross for me. I know why You chose to do this for me, but I still cannot comprehend how You could make such a decision. For us... for me... was it really worth it?

Please do not let me dwell on this question alone. Today, I understand even more that I must build and strengthen my hope. Let my hope drive my faith and love so that I will continue to accept the prompting and invitation of the Holy Spirit each day. No matter how many trials or hardships I face in life, I will not give up easily, nor will I lose hope or doubt Your promise to me.

Lord Jesus, help me learn from Mother Mary, to take up my cross each day and follow You. I promise You that, every day of my life, I will strive to be a better pilgrim of hope.

--------------------

The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding Hope in God’s Kingdom” team, including FLL staff and volunteers.
Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Writer: Paul Yeung
Project Manager: Michael Lam, Rosa Tse
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: J. Johnson
Mandarin Narrator: C. Zhou
Audio Editors: Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Arnold Chan, Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee
Graphics: Francis Lai, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse

Theme Music:

"3 MINUTES RELAXATION MUSIC | 4K Scenic View of Tuscany" by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist

“Sea of Memory” by Aakash Gandhi https://www.youtube.com/@88keystoeuphoria

Yesterday, during our retreat, we mentioned that hope must be founded on God's promises. But does this mean that with this foundation, we are free from all challenges and temptations?

Let us once again reflect on the experience of the Blessed Virgin Mary. When Jesus was born, there was no room at the inn, and so St. Joseph had to accompany Mary to give birth to Jesus in a manger. Would Mary recall at that moment how the angel Gabriel had announced that God would give this child the throne of His ancestor, David? Would she question if it was a true promise? Would she even doubt whether this child was truly the Son of God?

And when Mary stood at the foot of the cross, would she have recalled God’s promise, that the Jesus whom she gave birth to would be great, be called the Son of the Most High, and that he would reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His Kingdom would have no end? Yet, before her eyes was her beloved Son, dying the most humiliating death. The revered rabbi was scorned by all; the throne that was promised to Him had turned into a cross on which He was executed; the eternal reign and the Saviour praised by all people turned into a death row criminal who was more disgraceful than a robber...  And what about Mother Mary herself? As the Mother of God, she suddenly became the mother of a condemned man sentenced to death!

Would Mary have asked herself, "When I presented Jesus in the temple, didn’t Simeon proclaim that in Him, he had seen God’s salvation for all people? Was this prophecy true?"

This was the temptation that Our Lady faced. The devil wanted to challenge her faith, destroy her hope, and make her fall into despair, abandoning her trust in God. He wanted her to be so crushed by suffering that she would lose all her life’s merits. But the devil’s schemes failed!

In the end, Mary chose to trust in the faithful God. She held on to hope, convinced that God would fulfill His promise, and she firmly believed in her Son’s words, that He would rise again on the third day! The foundation of her hope remained unshaken, and instead of being defeated, she defeated the devil by overcoming its temptations.

This is why Pope Francis, praised Mary’s hope in his message for the 38th World Youth Day:

“That was the hope of the Virgin Mary, who remained steadfast beneath the cross of Jesus, certain that the “good outcome” was near. Mary is the woman of hope, the Mother of hope. On Calvary, “hoping against hope” (cf. Rom 4:18), she never wavered in her certainty of the resurrection that her Son had proclaimed. Our Lady filled the silence of Holy Saturday with loving and hope-filled expectation, and inspired in the disciples the certainty that Jesus would conquer death and that evil would not be the last word. 〔……〕 Let us entrust our lives entirely to Mary, Mother of Hope. She teaches us how to carry Jesus, our joy and hope, within our hearts and to share him with others.”

Jesus, who is faithful to His promises, did not disappoint Mother Mary. He conquered death and rose on the third day. Likewise, Mary did not disappoint God. Her faith and hope endured, even though, as Simeon had prophesied, a sword pierced her soul. She bore the pain and remained with Jesus until His last breath. In this silent exchange between God and Mary, love and hope prevailed.

Reflection

If you were in Mother Mary’s place, how would you feel when Jesus, your beloved Son, was dying on the cross?

Do you think it was unfair for God to let Mother Mary endure such trials?  Was the burden He has given to Our Lady too heavy?

In your own life, do you ever feel that choosing God's path comes with overwhelming challenges and pressure? Take a moment of silence and learn from Mother Mary.

Today's Prayer

Heavenly Father, as I meditate on the challenges Mother Mary faced, I come to understand more deeply the “untold” loneliness and suffering she endured as the Mother of the Son of God. Her pain at the foot of the cross, witnessing her Son’s humiliation and agony, must have been more excruciating than a sword piercing her heart. And I realized, this suffering was caused by my sins...

Thank You for redeeming me from my sins. Please save me from despair so that my hope will not be destroyed by the enemy.

Help me learn from Mother Mary, to always have unwavering faith in You, and to anchor my hope in Your promises. I promise you that I will be a witness of hope and ignite the hope you have given me in my brothers and sisters around me.

Mother of Hope, pray for us!

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The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding Hope in God’s Kingdom” team, including FLL staff and volunteers.
Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Writer: Paul Yeung
Project Manager: Michael Lam, Rosa Tse
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: J. Johnson
Mandarin Narrator: C. Zhou
Audio Editors: Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Arnold Chan, Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee
Graphics: Francis Lai, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse

Theme Music:

"3 MINUTES RELAXATION MUSIC | 4K Scenic View of Tuscany" by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist

“Sea of Memory” by Aakash Gandhi https://www.youtube.com/@88keystoeuphoria

As we begin today's retreat, let us revisit the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1817) regarding the definition of "hope": "Hope is the theological virtue by which we desire the Kingdom of Heaven and eternal life as our happiness"

The "happiness" mentioned here can also be understood as the things we long for. Therefore, the intensity of our desire for the Kingdom of Heaven and eternal life is directly related to whether we truly possess the virtue of hope.

The Catechism further explains “hope” as follows: “placing our trust in Christ's promises and relying not on our own strength, but on the help of the grace of the Holy Spirit.” This explanation clearly shows us that there are two essential conditions for having "hope"! We must build this theological virtue on these two "foundations"!

The first is that our hope should not be placed in anything else but in the promises of Christ. We reflected on this in yesterday's retreat. Our hope should not be built on human assurances or worldly guarantees, no matter how much they may satisfy our earthly needs. For example, patients with critical illnesses should not place all their hope solely in medical advancements. Likewise, people in a troubled society should not solely rely on a new government to resolve all social problems, and so on. These are not the true source of our hope. Instead, the promise of Christ is as indispensable to us as an "anchor" to a ship or a "cornerstone" to a building.

The second necessary condition is that we must not rely on our own strength but on the help of the grace of the Holy Spirit. We see this virtue exemplified in the Blessed Virgin Mary. When the Angel Gabriel announced God's plan to her, she asked: "How can this be, since I am a virgin?” The angel responded: "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God."

You can imagine, with the limited wisdom of human beings, how could Mary fully comprehend this profound revelation? Therefore, we can infer that her faith didn’t equate to full understanding, but instead, it showed her trust in God and the Holy Spirit. This shows that she did not rely on her limited human understanding to comprehend God’s mysterious plan for her. Therefore, Mary did not argue with the angel, but responded to God's invitation readily with humility and obedience. She also didn’t use her own abilities or methods to resolve the crisis of unwed pregnancy, which was considered a mortal sin punishable by death at the time. Instead, she followed the prompting of the Holy Spirit and went to visit Elizabeth. Notice that the Holy Spirit did not abandon Mary to face difficulties alone. Rather, God sent an angel to appear to Joseph in a dream and revealed the truth behind the events, paving the way for Mary to fulfill God's plan for her.

Mary’s humility and trust in God enabled her to confidently and boldly obey God’s will and fulfill God’s plan for her. The example of the Virgin Mary perfectly exemplifies the essence of hope, as expressed in the Book of Hebrews, chapter 10, verse 23, which was quoted by the Catechism of the Catholic Church: “Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful.” (Hebrews 10:23) (cf. CCC 1817)

Reflection

Do you rely on your human wisdom to understand God’s invitation and what is happening to you before responding with faith?

When you cannot see the way forward, do you hesitate or refuse to take the next step? Can you learn the spirit of trust and surrender from Our Lady?

Among the virtues of humility, trust, and obedience, which do you still need to cultivate in order to grow in the virtue of hope?

Today's Prayer

Abba Father, today, I recognized my attachments. I am attached to understanding why things happen in my life, and I insist on having things done my way. I realize that there were many things I wanted to control, but there were very few things I was willing to surrender to You.

Thank You for allowing me to know myself better today, to recognize my weaknesses, my attachments, and my lack of trust in You. This realization humbles me! How could I treat You this way, despite all that You have done for me?

Please grant me a repentant heart, willing to humbly admit my mistakes and acknowledge my limitations. Help me to rely not on my own wisdom and ability, but on the help of the grace of the Holy Spirit. Please accept my contrite heart, and teach me to follow Your holy will.

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The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding Hope in God’s Kingdom” team, including FLL staff and volunteers.
Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Writer: Paul Yeung
Project Manager: Michael Lam, Rosa Tse
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: J. Johnson
Mandarin Narrator: C. Zhou
Audio Editors: Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Arnold Chan, Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee
Graphics: Francis Lai, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse

Theme Music:

"3 MINUTES RELAXATION MUSIC | 4K Scenic View of Tuscany" by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist

“Sea of Memory” by Aakash Gandhi https://www.youtube.com/@88keystoeuphoria

What is the true source of hope? This should be the ultimate question, not only for this retreat but for our entire life.

If this source is only temporary, it certainly cannot be considered the true source of our hope. However, since only God is self-existent and eternal, the true source of hope must be Him.

But if this God were not all-good or did not care for our well-being, we could not place our hope in Him. Fortunately, our God is not only omnipotent, all-knowing, and all-good, but He is also a God who is willing to give Himself completely for us. In fact, for our sake, there is nothing He would not do, even sacrificing Himself so that we may become His adopted sons and daughters and inherit the eternal joy He has prepared for us since the beginning of creation!

This should have been a perfect scenario and should have given us perfect hope. However, because we do not know our God, or we have misunderstood His intentions, we fail to attain this perfect hope!

First, we have hope because we believe that some of our deepest desires can eventually be fulfilled. If our ultimate hope is to attain "the Kingdom of Heaven" and "eternal life" (cf. Catechism of the Catholic Church 1817), then we must first ask whether our God is a trustworthy and faithful God who will grant us the Kingdom of Heaven and eternal life. The historical evidence of God's faithfulness, such as His fulfillment of promises to Noah and Abraham, and the Israelites' eventual entry into the Promised Land under Moses' leadership, demonstrates that this God, who acts in human history, is reliable.

Equally important is how we personally experience God's faithfulness. Only then can we internalize our hope in our personal Saviour, our God, because the foundation of hope is “trust”. It is this unshakable trust that enabled Mary to firmly believe that what God had spoken to her would be fulfilled (cf. Luke 1:45). This was the source of Mary's hope! It explains why she had the strength to face the challenges before her, as well as the determination and faith to continue responding to the prompt of the Holy Spirit and move forward.

In our personal experiences and interactions with God, whether we can witness His faithfulness becomes the key to building this "trust." With “trust” as the foundation of our relationship with God, we have the opportunity to establish a real and tangible tacit understanding with Him.

Once we have this trust and tacit understanding with God, nothing in life can hinder our confidence as we journey through this earthly pilgrimage. Nor can anything block our mutual trust with God!

With this, we can more confidently believe in all the promises God has made to us in the Scripture and in prayer, including the promise He made to us on the first day of this retreat, through the Book of the Prophet Jeremiah, chapter 29, verse 11:

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans for peace and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11)

Reflection

What is the source of your hope? Where do you seek your hope?

Do you see God as reliable and faithful? What criteria do you use to determine this?

Do you desire to build a relationship of mutual trust with God? How much do you trust Him?

Today’s Prayer

My dear Father in heaven, thank You for allowing me to reflect on the true source of hope in my life today. I admit that I have not given this question much thought! Perhaps that is why I often lack the virtue of hope.

When I ask myself how much I trust You, I do not have a satisfactory answer. I realize that part of the reason is that my trust in You is built on an unstable foundation. It is a relationship shaped by what I heard from others rather than a genuine and intimate personal relationship with You.

Abba Father, please help me to take You more seriously, to be more willing to spend time communicating with You, and to be more attentive to all that You do in my life and to the words that You speak to me. May I come to know You as my true personal Saviour and place my ultimate hope in You...

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The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding Hope in God’s Kingdom” team, including FLL staff and volunteers.
Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Writer: Paul Yeung
Project Manager: Michael Lam, Rosa Tse
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: J. Johnson
Mandarin Narrator: C. Zhou
Audio Editors: Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Arnold Chan, Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee
Graphics: Francis Lai, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse

Theme Music:

"3 MINUTES RELAXATION MUSIC | 4K Scenic View of Tuscany" by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist

“Sea of Memory” by Aakash Gandhi https://www.youtube.com/@88keystoeuphoria

The greatest characteristic of being wholly attuned to God’s will, besides being able to respond promptly and positively to His call, is to take immediate action accordingly.

According to the Gospel of Luke, after Mary accepted God’s invitation to become the mother of Jesus, the angel left her. Upon learning from the angel Gabriel that her elderly relative, Elizabeth, had conceived a son, Mary set out in haste to the hill country to visit Elizabeth in those days (cf. Luke 1:39-56). This action of Mary was quite unusual because her primary concern should have been the difficult situation she herself was facing, rather than the needs of others.

Mary’s action reflects that she has an extraordinary power, which stemmed from a supernatural peace and faith. Her faith was rooted in the firm belief that God is faithful and would surely help her face and overcome the challenges ahead, and arrange everything for her. Therefore, Our Lady was full of confidence and completely trusted in the plans that the Holy Spirit had for her. Because of this deep trust, Mary could feel at ease to accompany and assist Elizabeth for three months before returning home.

From this, we can see that Mary truly believed in what the angel Gabriel had told her: “For nothing will be impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37) She also firmly believed that the Heavenly Father would keep His promises and would not let her bear the responsibility of being the mother of Jesus, the Son of God, all by herself. This extraordinary freedom enabled Mary not only to calmly accept God’s astonishing invitation but also to joyfully follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit to visit and serve her relative, Elizabeth.

Elizabeth was deeply moved by Mary’s visit. Filled with the Holy Spirit, she exclaimed in a loud cry: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy.” (Luke 1:42-44)

Without the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Elizabeth would not have known that Mary was pregnant, let alone that the child she was carrying was the Son of God! Through Elizabeth, the Holy Spirit not only affirmed that Mary’s acceptance of God’s invitation to be the mother of Jesus was a blessing, but also praised Mary for her unwavering faith in God.

Thus, Elizabeth concluded with these words:
“Blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord!” (Luke 1:45)

In this encounter between Mary and Elizabeth, we witnessed how Mary’s communion with God freed her from fear and prompted her to act immediately in response to the Holy Spirit’s prompting to visit Elizabeth. We also see how God continued to accompany and encourage Mary through Elizabeth after the angel had left her.

The intimate relationship between Mary and God is once again fully revealed in her interaction with Elizabeth.

Reflection

Do you have the inner freedom of Our Lady to respond to God’s call and take action promptly?

Please reflect on your relationship with God. Do you have the same faith in the Heavenly Father as Mary did? Do you trust in the work of the Holy Spirit in your life?

Do you have faith that what God has spoken to you will be fulfilled? Now, I invite you to share your feelings and expectations with God in prayer.

Today’s Prayer

Dear Abba Father, as I meditate on the intimate relationship between You and Mother Mary, I am not only moved but also deeply yearn to experience the same closeness with You. I firmly believe that You desire this relationship with me even more than I do.

In the past, I did not dare to hope that I could be so close to You. But today’s reflection has given me confidence because I realize that Your trust in me is not based on my merits or abilities but because of Your unconditional love and trust in me.

I now call upon the Holy Spirit to come into my heart, to teach me to pray and to confidently call You “Abba Father”, and to strengthen my faith, so that I will have an unshakable belief that all You have spoken and promised to me will come true!

--------------------

The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding Hope in God’s Kingdom” team, including FLL staff and volunteers.
Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Writer: Paul Yeung
Project Manager: Michael Lam, Rosa Tse
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: J. Johnson
Mandarin Narrator: C. Zhou
Audio Editors: Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Arnold Chan, Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee
Graphics: Francis Lai, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse

Theme Music:

"3 MINUTES RELAXATION MUSIC | 4K Scenic View of Tuscany" by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist

“Sea of Memory” by Aakash Gandhi https://www.youtube.com/@88keystoeuphoria