ADVENT WEEK 1: HOPE

Today, a candle symbolizing Hope is lit, beginning the Advent season. This time of year may be a fun, joyful time for you, or it may be a time of pain and sadness. But take heart dearly beloved, Jesus Christ offers you hope. That is why we celebrate Christmas. Jesus was born to bring hope and light to this dark, sinful world. Jesus is our living hope, and Hebrews 6:18-19 says that hope is the anchor of our soul. Without Jesus, we are lost and have no purpose, but God offers us the greatest gift ever, His precious Son, Jesus Christ, our Messiah. Once we accept this gift, we become children of God and receive every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places.

No matter what pain you are facing, remember that your hope is in heaven. One day, Jesus will come back again, not as a babe in the manger, but as our triumphant King who will make all things new. He will wipe away every tear from our eyes and bring suffering to an end. We are eagerly awaiting in hope for that day. Because of the hope of Immanuel's second coming, a weary world can rejoice. O Beloved, rest in the loving arms of your Savior and cling to the hope He offers you. Hebrews 11:1 says, "Now faith is the reality of what is hoped for the proof of what is not seen." God's faithfulness in the past gives us confidence to have faith and trust that God will fulfill His future promises. Unlike this world, our inheritance in Christ is sure and secure. Place your hope in Jesus Christ alone this Christmas season!