Advent Hope
Advent is upon us-the period of waiting for the birth of Jesus Christ; for Christmas to come! And waiting for the Risen King Jesus to return and make all things new. Each week in Advent has a theme and a candle is lit each Sunday to mark the weeks till Christmas. This week’s theme is hope.
“And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.” From the Book of Romans Chapter 5 verse 5.
There are so many authors and song writers who inspire me with their work, that for the month of December I will be sharing them with you.
My Favorite Advent Song
The following hymn,”Oh, Come, Oh come Emmanuel” is sung every Sunday in Lutheran and Catholic churches during the four weeks before Christmas. This is called Advent in the church year calendar. It’s a song of longing for Jesus’ arrival. Hearing this song instantly takes me back to my childhood days of impatiently waiting for Christmas Eve. Nowadays, it also reminds me that one day Jesus will return to make everything right in this world.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RP4iyJqrPvY
Readings
#1. Ann Voscamp is one of my favorite authors, and this is a poem she wrote called “The Night Before Advent” which is pinned to my Holiday Cheer board on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/340021840601171699/
#2. According to an article by Crosswalk, “Twinkling lights and candles everywhere remind us that Jesus is the light of the world that came to dispel the darkness. That theme of light is what originally gave birth to the Advent wreath hundreds of years ago in Lutheran Germany, and it’s become a beloved tradition in many churches and homes. The Advent Wreath is typically an evergreen wreath containing five candles, each lit on successive Sundays during the Advent readings. Some variations of the Advent wreath include different colors to correspond to different themes, while others keep the candles a simple white.”
#3. Since the theme of the first Sunday in Advent is Hope, the following scripture is often read before lighting the first Advent candle.
Isaiah 9:2, 6-7:
“The people walking in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of deep darkness
a light has dawned. […]
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the greatness of his government and peace
there will be no end.
He will reign on David’s throne
and over his kingdom,
establishing and upholding it
with justice and righteousness
from that time on and forever.
The zeal of the Lord Almighty
will accomplish this.”
Advent Wreaths and Displays
If you are inspired to put together your own Advent wreath here are directions. I would love to see a picture of yours.
May you be filled with hope for your future through faith in Jesus this week.
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Till next time, Kathy
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