Embracing “Infinite Hope” During Hopeless Times

by Al Henderson

Reading timeless quotes from prominent leaders is inspiring because their purpose for making that statement was not self-serving but to serve a higher purpose inevitably reaching further than they could imagine. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is one of the most quoted leaders during times of crisis. His quote, “We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope,” is easily one of my favorites that receives little attention.

We must accept finite disappointment but never lose infinite hope.

-Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

In my humble opinion, the lowest place a person can be is “hopeless.” Their faith has been tested far past the point average people endure and reintegrate to become productive citizens. Since I was originally asked to write this article, our staff, organization, community, and country have been enduring situations giving the appearance of hopelessness. Fortunately, our very mission is deeply rooted in a ministry dedicated to “building homes, communities, and HOPE.” Over 60 years ago, divine intervention gave Clarence Jordan and Millard Fuller the bold notion that every person deserves a decent place to live. They laid the foundation for Pensacola Habitat for Humanity to use a model of servitude by partnering with our staff, faith community, businesses, community-conscience individuals, and, of course, our families. Following recommendations to flatten the COVID-19 curve, we minimized our community efforts but getting back to our core mission has been challenging. Like everyone else, we had to create a fluid plan nimble enough to allow us to stay true to our mission but flexible enough to address “how” we safely implement new norms.

Boldly, Pensacola Habitat has used this time to rededicate ourselves and put God’slove into action. To build our 1,400th home in this community, we have to find creative ways to re-engage our volunteers, provide opportunities for our donors, work closely with our faith community, implement new methods of partnering with our families, and remain vigilant holding steadfast to our core belief of providing hope when times appear hopeless. While our doors appear to be partially opened to our community, we have not turned our backs on the people we serve. The lights are on, our staff is working, our families remain committed, and Habakkuk, a book in the Bible, reminds us that God has not forsaken us as we patiently abide in faith. We are just as eager as you to continue building homes for our families, participating in community redevelopment, and providing infinite hope for families who are hopeless. God Bless!