RE Verse reading–Acts 16:25-34, Acts 17:1-34 (day two) “What is our only hope in life and death? That we are not our own but belong to God.” So goes question one of the newcitycatechism.com (adapted from the Heidelberg catechism, 1563). Where do you rest when life suddenly becomes unfair, uncertain, unbearable? Where do you stand when the emotional and spiritual earthquake of losing a job, a friend, a life upends your expectations? Paul and Silas found not only solace but strength as they rested their hope in what was to come. After being unjustly accosted, accused, beaten and bound, they sang and praised God. Perhaps this was the moment when Paul realized what he would later write, “whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord” (Romans 14:8). If I belong to the Lord, then this world is not my home. My hope is in the “not yet.” Have you received the gift that the sting of pain, of loss brings as it reminds you that this is not your home? Have you found hope? I have.