The first week of Advent (Hope).

Believers in Jesus Christ have celebrated Advent since the 7th century A.D. As you recall, “Advent” from the Latin means “coming to”. Therefore, the Advent Season would be understood as: Jesus Christ (The Messiah) “coming to” the world.

During the first Sunday of Advent, Believers celebrate the arrival of Jesus Christ into the world and focus on the eternal “Hope” He brought. “Hope”, in Scripture, has two meanings:

1) a sense of eager anticipation or waiting; and
2) a sense of confident expectation based on certainty.

When Christian’s celebrate Advent, we remember, celebrate, and offer our thanksgiving for what God has done in history for all of humanity.   That God sent His only Son, through whom we might have the certainty of Hope…. for today, tomorrow, and eternity.

C.S. Lewis, author of The Chronicles of Narnia series and other works, writes “…The birth of Christ is the central event in the history of the earth — the very thing the whole story (creation) has been about…”.

Hope is not just wishful thinking. It is God entering the darkest places with quiet, eternal strength. Indeed, the first week of Advent is more than a church tradition-it can be a true encounter with Jesus Christ, the Light of the World (John 8:12).

Let this Advent week serve as a spiritual “wake-up call”: a time to acknowledge your deep need for Christ and to renew trust in God’s promises.

If you allow me, I will offer a prayer for you.

Heavenly Father, during this Advent season, help us reflect on Your act in time and space that gifted us with Your Son. Teach us to anchor our Hope in all aspects of life and family in Jesus Christ. We are grateful that You hear our prayers and petitions, and thankful for the eternal and everlasting Hope You offer us as we eagerly await Your return. Amen