I've lost hope

Hopelessness is when you cannot see a way forward. The disciples knew it after the crucifixion: two of them were walking away from Jerusalem, sad, saying they had hoped he was the one. Jesus did not wait for them to find their hope again. He walked beside them.

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and behold I am with you all days, even to the consummation of the world.
Matthew 28:20 · Douay-Rheims 1899 American Edition

If you are in crisis, or thinking of harming yourself, please contact emergency services (112 in Europe) or someone you trust now. You are not alone.

Awaiting theological review

What Jesus teaches

Direct
Summary of Matthew 28:20
His last promise in Matthew's Gospel: “behold I am with you all days, even to the consummation of the world.”
Direct
Summary of John 16:33
He told his disciples that in the world they would have distress, but to have confidence, because he has overcome the world.

What Christian tradition learns from this

Scripture

Paul writes that hope does not confound, because the love of God is poured forth in our hearts by the Holy Spirit.Romans 5:5

What Jesus did

The road to Emmaus
Luke 24:13–35
Direct
What Jesus experienced
Two disciples leaving Jerusalem, sad, saying that they had hoped he would redeem Israel.
What Jesus did
He walked with them, explained the Scriptures to them, and was known to them in the breaking of the bread.
Remember me
Luke 23:39–43
Direct
What Jesus experienced
A dying criminal with nothing left but one request.
What Jesus did
He promised him paradise that same day.
What Jesus said
“this day thou shalt be with me in paradise.”
Luke 23:43 · Douay-Rheims 1899 American Edition
Four days in the tomb
John 11:17–44
Direct
What Jesus experienced
Martha and Mary, four days after their brother's burial.
What Jesus did
He wept with them, and then called Lazarus out of the tomb.
What Jesus said
“I am the resurrection and the life”
John 11:25 · Douay-Rheims 1899 American Edition

What Scripture doesn’t tell us

If you feel there is no way out, or you are thinking of ending your life, please contact the emergency services or a crisis line now, or tell someone near you. Hopelessness that lasts can be depression, an illness that can be treated.

Someone who walked this road

CleopasScripture
One of the two on the road to Emmaus who had lost hope — and recognised the risen Jesus at table (Luke 24:18, 24:30–31).
Explore connections →
Saint Teresa of CalcuttaHistorical context
Her letters, published after her death, show that for many years she felt great inner darkness — and kept loving and serving.
Explore connections →

Pray

Lord Jesus, you walked beside the two who had lost hope. Walk beside me now, even if I do not recognise you. Stay with me, because it is getting dark. Amen.

Written for cento53 as a simple personal prayer — not a liturgical text.

One thing to do today

Tell one person today how you really are. Then do one small thing that is good for you — eat, walk, sleep, step outside — and offer it to God as a prayer.