Embracing Hope: The First Step of the Advent

By John Thurman

The First Sunday of Advent: Lighting the Candle of Hope

This weekend, my wife and I began a tradition we’ve kept for 53 years. As we sipped our morning coffee, we lit the first candle on our Advent wreath and read some Advent devotions. This marked the start of Advent—a time when many of us revisit comforting family traditions as the holiday season kicks off. Advent isn’t just a countdown to Christmas. It’s a spiritual journey where we prepare for the birth of Jesus. Each of the four Sundays before Christmas highlights a different theme: hope, peace, joy, and love. This past Sunday, we focused on hope.

Understanding Hope

Hope is more than just a wish; it’s a powerful force that helps us face life’s challenges. It’s the foundation for a strong and lasting faith. When times are tough, hope is like a light guiding us. In the Bible, endurance and hope are deeply connected. The New Testament uses the term “hypomeneo,” which means enduring under pressure. Real endurance is born from hope. It helps us survive hard times because we trust that better days will come.

The Power of Hope

Hope reminds us we’re not alone in our struggles. It gives us purpose and resilience, helping us grow stronger and more compassionate. Lighting the candle of hope connects us to generations past. It symbolizes that even a small light can shine brightly in the darkness. Picture family and friends gathered around the flickering flame. Its light symbolizes the start of our Advent journey, which is full of anticipation and faith. There’s still time if you didn’t light a candle this week. Advent is a season of hope.

Finding Hope in Jesus – At the heart of Advent is Jesus, the ultimate source of hope. His life showed us compassion, strength, and faith. In John 10:10, Jesus says, “I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” With Jesus, we find the strength to face challenges, knowing we’re part of a bigger story of hope and redemption.

Nurturing Hope

Over the next few weeks, I’ll share more about the themes of peace, joy, and love. Here are some ways to embrace hope:

1. Reach Out: Reach out to someone who might be struggling. A simple call or text can make a big difference.
2. Share Your Story: Talk about times when hope guided you. It can inspire others who are facing similar difficulties.
3. Reflect: Take time to think about what hope means to you. Writing in a journal can help.
4. Volunteer: Helping others can create hope for both you and them.
5. Pray and Be Grateful: Spend some time in prayer and think about what you’re thankful for. Gratitude often leads to hope.

Conclusion

As we focus on hope this first Sunday of Advent, remember that it’s more than a feeling. Hope is a powerful force that shapes our lives. The Apostle Paul said, “hope does not disappoint” (Romans 5:5), and we can carry that truth. I pray that the Lord fills your life with hope as Christmas approaches. Let’s nurture it within ourselves and share it with others, just as the candle’s light dispels darkness.

Join me next week as we explore the next step of our Advent journey: peace.

Have a blessed week!