Hope of Harvest
By: CJ and Dena Washington
As we laid our heads to rest on election night, one truth became clear: no matter the outcome, the world would never be the same. Change was inevitable, and with it, a call to embrace hope as our guiding force. Today, we sit with unwavering confidence in the path God has laid before us. In the face of uncertainty, hope rises, becoming the foundation of our journey.
Hope is not merely a fleeting emotion; it is a strength woven into the fabric of our character. It is the force that allows us to look beyond present challenges and see the promise of renewal. As we reflect on the past and move toward the future, we find ourselves on a pilgrimage of hope, planting seeds in new locations, forging connections in unfamiliar spaces, and harvesting wisdom from experience.
Each introduction and reintroduction in our communities is an opportunity to share the light of hope. Through our interactions, others will see in us the very eyes of hope, a reflection of the faith that sustains us. This revelation became even more profound when we learned that this year marks the Jubilee of Hope. A jubilee is a time of renewal, restoration, and rejoicing—a season to acknowledge our received blessings and anticipate the ones yet to come.
As we walk this path of discernment, God continues to reveal insights and strengthen our weaknesses. In this season of hope, we are called to go deeper, to plant our seeds with intention, nurture the dreams God has placed within us, and cultivate the communities we are building. Whether on our farm or in our personal and professional endeavors, we must recognize that every act of faith, every labor of love, and every moment of service is part of a greater harvest.
For our family, 2025 is a year of Hope of Harvesting All We Have Planted. We recognize that our ability to reap a bountiful harvest is directly tied to our hope in Jesus Christ. Just as a farmer cannot expect a fruitful season without first planting seeds and tending to the land, we cannot expect spiritual or communal growth without deeply rooting ourselves in faith. Hope is the anticipation of answered prayers, and through faith, we witness the unfolding of God’s divine plan.
We invite you to find community in this Jubilee of Hope year. Take the time to reflect on the seeds you have sown in your life, whether in your family, career, or personal growth. Dig deeper into the soil of your purpose. Pull forth the harvest of past lessons and express gratitude for all that has come before. Most importantly, hold onto the hope that the best is yet to come, not just for yourself but for each of our brothers and sisters worldwide.
Let us stand firm in faith, plant our seeds with conviction, and trust in the abundant harvest that awaits. This is our season of hope; through it, we will see God's faithfulness in full bloom.
CJ and Dena Washington reside in the Archdiocese of Galveston/Houston and are new consultants to the Subcommittee on African American Affairs at the USCCB.