First Sunday of Advent - Hope


Scripture Readings:

  • Jeremiah 33:14-16
  • 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13
  • Luke 21:25-36
Today, we begin the season of Advent, a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the coming of Christ. Advent invites us to pause and reflect, to reorient our hearts to God’s promises, and to rekindle our hope. As we light the first candle on the Advent wreath, the candle of hope, we turn to the Scriptures to guide us. Our readings today speak of Gods faithfulness, the call to holy living, and the signs of Christ's return. Together, they remind us that amid uncertainty, we are called to place our trust in Gods promises and to prepare our hearts for His coming.

The prophet Jeremiah speaks to a people in exile, a nation that feels abandoned and hopeless. Yet, amid despair, God gives a promise: The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. This promise points to a righteous branch from David's line, a king who will execute justice and righteousness. For Christians, this prophecy finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the Messiah. Through Him, we see the faithfulness of God. A God who keeps His promises, even when the circumstances seem bleak. As we begin Advent, we are reminded that Gods promises are trustworthy. In a world that often feels uncertain and unstable, we can find hope in the steadfastness of God's Word. Practically, this hope calls us to trust in God's faithfulness in our own lives, especially when we face challenges. It encourages us to keep moving forward, knowing that Gods plans for us are good.

Paul's letter to the Thessalonians overflows with gratitude and encouragement. He prays that their love for one another may increase and their hearts may be strengthened in holiness as they await the coming of the Lord Jesus. This passage challenges us to consider how we are living in this time of waiting. Advent is not just about looking back to Christ's first coming or looking forward to His return; it is about how we live in the present. Are we abounding in love? Are we living lives that reflect the holiness to which we are called? Practically, this means taking intentional steps to demonstrate love in our daily interactions. It might involve reaching out to someone lonely, forgiving a past hurt, or being generous with our time and resources. Holiness, too, requires discipline and setting aside time for prayer, seeking accountability, and striving to align our actions with Gods will. In doing so, we prepare our hearts for Christ's, both now and in the future. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus speaks of cosmic signs and distress among nations, painting a picture of turmoil and fear. Yet, amidst these warnings, there is a call to hope: When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift your heads because your redemption is drawing near. Advent reminds us that hope is not the absence of challenges but the assurance that God is at work even in the midst of chaos. The signs of the times should not lead us to despair but to vigilance and prayer. Jesus calls us to stay awake, to be alert, and to pray for strength.  Practically, this vigilance involves staying rooted in faith and not being overwhelmed by fear or distraction. It means creating space for reflection, seeking Gods presence in daily life, and responding to challenges with resilience and trust in His redemptive plan. We can also be a source of hope for others by offering words of encouragement, standing alongside them in difficult times, and pointing them to the promises of God.

As we journey through this first week of Advent, let us hold fast to the hope we have in Christ. Jeremiah reminds us of Gods faithfulness to His promises. Paul encourages us to abound in love and holiness as we wait. And Jesus calls us to stay vigilant, assured that our redemption is near. Let us light the candle of hope in our hearts, trusting in the One who came, who is present with us now, and who will come again in glory. May our lives reflect the hope of Advent as we prepare to welcome Christ anew. Amen.


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