HOPE

Today is special because it is the beginning of the Advent season.  “Advent” is a word that means “to come.” It is a time when we get ready, preparing ourselves for the coming of Jesus Christ. Jesus came when he was born on Christmas day.

Lighting a candle reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world. The first candle is the candle of HOPE. We wait with HOPE for the day when we celebrate again the birth of Jesus. We HOPE that everyone will come to know God and worship God.

Hundreds of years before Jesus was born, God spoke through prophets in the Old Testament to tell people that the Messiah, Jesus Christ, would come. This candle of Hope is symbolic of the long years of waiting and hoping for when Jesus Christ would come to save the people from their sins. Listen to the words of the prophet Isaiah.

  “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.” 

Lets pray: Thank you, Jesus, for coming to earth, just like the prophets said, and for your promise to come again. Thank you, Jesus, for being our light so we know how to live. AMEN