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As we wrap up the first “mini-week” of Advent – we are going to focus on HOPE. This is, after all, the season of hope.
For those of you who are not familiar with the actual church season and the tradition of observing Advent. There are FOUR Sundays in observance. The first of the four is HOPE. Then after Hope is Peace then Joy then wrapping up the last Sunday before Christmas is Love.
Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is the reality of what is hoped for the proof of what is not seen.”
The excerpt from the Daily Grace CO’s Advent Study says it perfectly:
“On the first Sunday of Advent a candle is lit to symbolize hope. Advent is about hope in the Messiah who will make all things right. The verse for this week reminds us that faith is being assured of what is hoped for. We have confidence in the promises of God. Though we don’t yet see how God will accomplish His purposes, we trust Him to do it. We place our Hope in Him.”
That is so powerful in this season of hope.
So today as we light the candle of HOPE, or if you aren’t lighting a candle, as you focus on Hope. Let’s define it. What is hope? Is it a wishful thinking, a cross your fingers, wish on a star kind of desire? Maybe. But for the Christ Follower – we get to place our hope in someone that is so much more powerful than a star or wish. Like we read in Psalm 18:30 – God’s Promises are always proven TRUE. Which means when he put our Hope in God – He is faithful to follow through.
It is a confidence in a certain expectation.
A living hope give to us through the resurrection of Jesus and a promised inheritance and invitation to heaven. As believers, we are hopeful because our hope rests in Jesus.
Romans 15:12-13 “And again Isaiah says, ‘The Root of Jesse will come, even he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope.’ May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
Be confident. (More devotions like this one, here). During Advent, we are preparing for the coming of Jesus – but as we wait, I pray that you would be filled with all joy and peace in believing of the abundant hope that is given through the Power of the Holy Spirit. Let us ‘rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, and constant in prayer. (Romans 12:12)
