We have entered the season that exemplifies hope. The celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ: A hope that does not disappoint.

I remember ordained minister and founder of Crown Him His Glory Ministry, Jeana C. Flory of Kettering being a part of a team who ministered at the Ohio Reformatory for women. Jeana has been in ministry for 20 years. She’s been married to Jeffrey for 39 years. They have three adult children, no grandchildren but three grand puppies. She shares what Christmas really means to her.

Q. Jeana, would you tell us what hope means to you?

A. Hope is a desire for something good to happen while expecting or being confident that our hope will come true. Hope also reminds me that it will take some perseverance of faith while believing that something is possible even when there is evidence of the contrary.

Q. Which scripture stands out to you in regards to this type of hope?

A. In Hebrew 11:1, it states “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

Q. How have you utilized this word for your own life to encourage those who could use an extra dose of hope during this Christmas season?

A. Years ago, my husband Jeffrey and I were facing troubling times with our house in foreclosure, our vehicles repossessed, and nothing to share for Christmas. What we learned was how to truly worship the One who gave us the greatest gift, eternal life and salvation through Jesus Christ. When you have nothing to give it is easier to open our hearts.

Q. Jeana, would you have any final words of hope for us as we draw closer to the day many of us celebrate as Christmas?

A. To never worry about the size of one’s Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 20-feet tall. Christmas is a day of meaning and tradition, a special day spent in the warm embrace of family and friends. And in the words from Dr. Seuss book, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” remember that “Christmas doesn’t come from a store, maybe Christmas perhaps means a little bit more...”

Let us hold fast the confession of hope without wavering, for He who does not disappoint is faithful.

Tonya Lee Carrie Fancher, founder, artistic and creator director of God’s Freedom Fighters Int., Inc. She can be reached at tonyaleecarrie fancher@gmail.com