Today, 28th October, is St Jude’s Day, a day that celebrates the life of Jude the Apostle, often referred to as the “patron saint of hopeless causes.” Now, for many of us, the idea of hopeless causes might conjure up an image of that one drawer in the kitchen, overflowing with things we haven’t needed in years but can’t bear to throw away. Or perhaps it brings to mind that tricky situation we’ve been praying about, waiting for a breakthrough that still hasn’t come.
St Jude is traditionally remembered as the disciple who encouraged Christians to stay strong in the faith, especially when times were tough. While the UK might not commonly celebrate saints in the same way other cultures do, the message of St Jude’s Day is one that resonates deeply with us today: Never give up on hope, especially when things seem impossible.
The God of the Impossible
In moments where things seem bleak, we might wonder, “Is this ever going to change?” We face mountains that look immovable, whether that’s financial struggles, relational breakdowns, or health challenges. St Jude reminds us of a crucial biblical truth: with God, no situation is truly hopeless.
Matthew 19:26 says, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” It’s a verse that’s often quoted, but have we truly let it sink into our hearts? When God steps into a situation, everything changes. The impossible becomes possible, the hopeless finds hope, and the darkest night breaks into dawn.
Perseverance in Prayer
One of the greatest lessons we can draw from St Jude’s Day is the power of persistent prayer. Jude was a man who encouraged others to remain strong in their faith, even in the face of adversity. He reminds us that prayer isn’t about quick fixes; it’s about building a deep relationship with God, trusting Him with both the little and the big things.
James 5:16 tells us, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” So often, we give up on prayer because we don’t see immediate results. But the Bible encourages us to keep asking, keep seeking, and keep knocking (Matthew 7:7). God hears every prayer, and He answers in His perfect timing.
Reflection Question and Action Step:
- Reflection Question: Are there areas in your life where you’ve given up hope or stopped praying? How can you reignite your faith in God’s ability to move in these situations?
- Action Step: This week, pick one area where you feel things are “hopeless” and commit to praying about it daily. Trust that God will move, even if you can’t yet see how.
A Moment to Reflect
Today, as you reflect on St Jude’s Day, think about those “hopeless” situations in your life. What feels too big, too complicated, or too far gone for God to handle? Remember, He specialises in the impossible. Like Jude encouraged early believers, stay strong in the faith and continue to bring those challenges before God in prayer. Even when you can’t see the end, trust that God is working behind the scenes, turning impossible situations around.
A Hopeful Future
While we may feel stuck at times, remember that God has a plan and a purpose for each of us. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Your current challenge is not the end of the story. With God, there is always hope, always a future, and always the possibility of breakthrough.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for reminding us today that there is no such thing as a hopeless cause with You. As we remember St Jude, we ask for Your help to stay strong in our faith, even when life feels overwhelming. Give us the perseverance to keep praying, to trust in Your perfect timing, and to believe that You are always working for our good. We lift up our challenges to You today, knowing that You are the God of the impossible. Help us to rest in Your promises and trust You with our future. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
