In an increasingly anxious world, hope is one of the greatest gifts our church can offer. As our world faces multiplying crises, we are realising that the hope we placed in political systems, economic outcomes and technology, while capable of good, is not delivering the promised better world. Our technology and endless information often have us arguing in social media threads rather than addressing social challenges, protecting our environment or building communities. Our consumer-driven individualism is undermining the better version of “us”. In a disillusioned, disheartened culture—where is hope?
Our vision for the Australian Union Conference is to be thriving, Christ-centred communities of hope. This includes local congregations, schools, aged care and various other ministries. We believe in the profound love of Jesus and the hope, peace and joy that come from knowing Him, living with Him and living for Him. The mission of the church is incredibly relevant. In Jesus, we have hope for the future, but also a better way of being human now.
The vision of hope resonates deeply with me because I believe it captures both the heart of God and the needs of our nation. Australia does not simply need more religious activity. People are longing for authentic hope, genuine community and a faith that transforms everyday life.
We can model a “better humanity”. We are to be lights in the darkness, the agents of hope. Paul outlines in his letter to the Ephesians that, inspired through God’s love (Ephesians 1,2), empowered with His inner strength (Ephesians 3) and equipped for mission (Ephesians 4–6), we are to be “children of light” (Ephesians 5,6). Jesus, working in and through us, then transforms families, workplaces and churches, infusing communities with hope.
I am optimistic about the next steps for our church. In a culture suffering a loneliness epidemic, we embrace community. We celebrate community every Sabbath. The Sabbath acts as resistance to the “anti-community” challenges of advanced consumer culture as we disengage from the commodification of everything and instead celebrate what matters for eternity. Young people connecting in our schools and ministries sense a bigger purpose and see hope.
In a culture increasingly shaped by anxiety and fear, we are called to be the “non-anxious presence”. We know what the future holds and the hope we have in Jesus. We proclaim that Babylon falls (Revelation 14). The systems that use power and control to take the worship of God and place it on self do not stand in the end and, while appearing strong, actually crumble. We know our political systems do not ultimately have the answers. We call people to a better way of being human that follows Jesus. We call people into God’s kingdom, built on love, service, humility and hope.
Where people are looking for “transformation”, we go beyond outward appearance and proclaim that everything is spiritual. Our emphasis on wholistic health shapes ministries that increasingly resonate in our culture. Across our church, we see people of hope shaping a better way of being “us” for now and eternity.
This is why I am excited for our church as we move toward OneVoice27, where we intentionally focus on sharing Jesus. This is why lifting our outward focus together during Australia for Christ 2028 is vital. These initiatives are simply about sharing the hope we have in Jesus—personally and together. It will take all of us being Jesus’ hands, heart and voice.
We are not people driven by panic, anger or despair, but people grounded in the peace of Christ. We are people who listen well, love deeply and carry hope into homes, workplaces, schools and neighbourhoods. Our confidence rests not in ourselves, but in God’s faithfulness—because our hope has never depended on circumstances; it is found in the God who can do far more than we can hope or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).
May we be agents of hope who inspire, empower and equip people to respond to God’s love and calling. May we be communities of hope.
