NOVEMBER GRATITUDE:Hope!
Thursday's post was posted this morning in error, I have removed it and updated it with today's post on HOPE. I hope you will find some hope in today's post.
The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.
(Lyrics from the Christmas carol, O, Little Town of Bethlehem)
I was introduced to the Liturgical calendar used by many in Christendom only a few years ago, and I have come to value the rhythm of worship it represents. The Christian calendar begins with Advent, which is four weeks of spiritual focus and preparation before celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas.
Anyone who knows me well realizes I adore everything Christmas. Embracing the tradition of Advent, which in 2022, began yesterday, November 27th, adds rich meaning to the season I love so much.
Each week of this Advent season, I will open my Monday posts using photos of a new Advent wreath we are using this year. The lit candle highlights the week’s Advent theme. The first Sunday of Advent represents HOPE. Purple in color, this is called the “Prophecy Candle” and remembers the prophets who foretold the birth of Christ hundreds of years prior to Jesus’ birth. For oh, so long, the Jewish people hoped for the coming of their Messiah.
For what are you hoping? Will you join me this week in talking with God about your deepest hope?
Advent Prayer for Hope
All-Knowing & Loving God,
You know sometimes I find it difficult to HOPE.
I confess I feel disappointed when I pray for the fulfillment of a HOPE or dream, and nothing seems to happen.
I become discouraged in the waiting.
Right now, in faith, I give my difficulties, dreams, disappointments, and discouragements to you.
God of HOPE, fill me with all joy and peace as I trust in you, so that I may overflow with HOPE by the power of the Holy Spirit. (See Romans 15:13)
No matter how long I must wait, please keep the flame of HOPE burning—or at least flickering—in my heart.
The HOPE I present to you this first week of Advent is _________________________. (You fill in the blank.)
Give me strength and courage to pray like the psalmist:
Let your unfailing love surround [me], Lord, for [my] HOPE is in you alone.
(See Psalm 33:22)
Amen
May you be filled with the anticipation of HOPE this first week of Advent!
