Photo and Commentary ©2026 by Darren Milam
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
About a week ago, I was on a business trip to Utah. The company I work for has a manufacturing facility in Draper, a community just south of Salt Lake City. I was staying at a hotel nearby in Sandy, Utah.
One morning, I went for a walk and passed the Sandy Courthouse. Standing in front of the building was a memorial statue honoring the firefighters who raised the American flag over the rubble of the World Trade Center following the attacks of September 11, 2001.
That iconic image became a symbol of hope during one of our nation’s darkest moments. In the midst of tragedy, Americans were searching for something positive to hold on to, something that reminded them we would endure and move forward together.
The phrase “hope rising” can mean different things to different people. In that moment, “hope” meant believing that something better was ahead and that we would make it through an incredibly difficult time.
While 9/11 was a unique event, our world continues to experience hardship, loss, and brokenness. When we look around today, it’s easy to see that this fallen world needs all the hope it can get.
As believers, we have the opportunity to raise hope every day. We can share the love of Christ, encourage those who are struggling, and bring light into difficult circumstances. Does that mean bad things won’t happen? Of course not. But hope gives us confidence in God’s promises and assurance that something greater awaits us.
That promise may be realized in this life, or ultimately when we go Home to be with Him.
As Christians, we are called to be carriers of that hope. We can point people to a better way, demonstrate Christ’s love through our actions, and remind others that they are not alone.
My challenge for you this week is simple: pray for opportunities to raise hope. You never know how God might use a kind word, a helping hand, or a simple conversation to make an eternal difference.
Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.”