(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
The season of Advent is officially upon us! The word advent – which originates from the Latin word adventus, “coming”) has its roots all the way back in the 400-500’s AD. Historically, the season of advent is not only about preparing for Jesus’ birth, but also recognizing the future of His return.
In Protestant Christianity, there are four primary themes for Advent, including Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. Unfortunately, our culture has had a negative impact on the meaning of each one.
Just think about how you and/or others use the word hope on a regular basis.
- I hope I did well on my Math exam.
- I hope my team wins this game!
- I hope my boss gives me a raise.
- I hope I get ______ for Christmas.
But within the Scriptures the word hope has a much deeper and more profound meaning. It isn’t about test scores, a sports team, or how much money you make.
What is hope? Hope is believing that the best is yet to come.
READING & JOURNALING:
How do you generally use the word hope?
Be honest: Do you wholeheartedly believe that the best is yet to come? Why or why not?
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I confess that I sometimes struggle to believe that the best is yet to come. I’ve experienced the brokenness of this world and these experiences sometimes lead me to doubt that the best is yet to come. For this season of Advent, I ask You to help rid my mind of these thoughts and to instead have real hope. Help me to know and experience real hope, and live in confidence that the best really is yet to come. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
south ridge blog 