1st week of Advent: Hope

Posted by occwebsite
05th Dec 2018

I am very grateful that HOPE is the first candle because we are in need of HOPE this week and this year.

HOPE for healing for friends
who are hurting both physically and emotionally.

HOPE for our world
that is broken and bleeding with wars and famine.

HOPE for refugees around the world
who just want a safe place to live.

HOPE for those who are living in fear
and want to build walls rather than bridges.

And I’m grateful for the HOPE that the scriptures point to

Isaiah reminds us that

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. Isaiah 9:2

What hope do you need today?
What things give you hope?
What things help you have hope on dark days?
A sunrise?
A baby’s smile?
A great cup of coffee in the morning?

Make a List and refer to it often.
Take time to find a bit of Hope each day.
How can you plan to see more Light this Advent, rather dwelling in the darkness?
What adds LIGHT to your life?
What can you do to bring LIGHT to your world, your family, your neighbours?
Start by Lighting an actual candle.
What righteousness and justice would you like to see Jesus execute in your land, your life, your neighbourhood?
Set a timer on your phone and pray daily for a place or an area that needs the justice of Jesus and the healing of his righteousness.
Find a globe ornament, add it to your tree to remind you to pray for places around the world that need justice, healing, and hope.

Here’s a prayer to pray during Advent.
Lord God
Calm us as we wait for the Gift of Jesus
Cleanse us to prepare the way for his arrival.
Help us to slow down and prepare our hearts.
Help us to wait and take time to be with you.
Teach us to contemplate the wonder of God with us.
Teach us to know the presence of your Spirit.
Teach us to bear the life of Jesus and live out his Kingdom.
Today and Always.
Amen