The words of Brazil’s newly elected president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, were celebrated with a round of spontaneous applause this month. Lula, representing a political party given to somewhat radical economic changes, captured the essence of the nation’s democratic decision in his first few words as president-elect: "Hope triumphed over fear!" Incidentally, Lula won by a complete landslide, receiving more than 60,000,000 votes—more than any other president in world history (bear in mind that voting is obligatory in Brazil).

The spiritual parallel is obvious. Big hopes leave fear in the dust. If our hope is in the Anchor (Heb. 6:19), then fear must make a hasty retreat. As Romans 4:18 puts it, if contrary to hope, in hope we believe, then the sky’s the limit. This year in ministry, perhaps what we lacked were bigger hopes—higher expectations—but all things said and done, we’re satisfied with the progress we’ve made. In all our God-given victories this year, it’s clear that hope triumphed over fear: in Railson’s studies, in Heidi’s nutrition work, in children’s ministry, in church growth, in construction projects, in Bible studies, in discipleships, in translation, and in home groups. It’s been a good year. Thank you for hoping with us. Now, in all our hopes for 2003, may Jesus take the lead. Once again, fear will be voted down!

We wish for you a Christmas full of joy and memorable occasions. Here, we plan on commemorating with a dinner barbeque & potluck for 100 at church on the 24^th. Wish you could join us!

Feliz Natal,

Railson & Heidi

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