Light Advent Candle:
- HOPE Candle – Purple
Scripture Reading:
And again, Isaiah says, “The Root of Jesse will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations; in him the Gentiles will hope.” May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. ~ Romans 15:12-13, NIV
She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins. ~ Matthew 1:21, NIV
Advent Hymn:
Prayer:
God, I thank you for sending your Son as my Savior. Help prepare my heart to make way for you Lord, since I know, you alone can make all things new. I pray for overflowing hope & peace, that I might share your love with all around me. Amen.
Coloring Page:
Download a FREE Coloring Page for this week.
What’s the difference between a wish vs. hope?
- WISH – refers to something that is NOT likely to happen; & past regrets
- I wish I had worn my blue dress. (Instead of the green one)
- I wish I had not said that to him. (I’m so embarrassed!)
- I wish I was a world-famous rock star. (Never gonna happen)
vs.
- HOPE – something in all likely-hood has a good chance of occurring
- I hope the bus arrives on time. (the weather is good)
- I hope I pass my test. (I studied an entire week)
- I hope I get the job. (I’m qualified & didn’t botch the interview)
What do you hope for? What would make your day? What could possibly turn your day around? Do you have High Hopes? (cue music – Sinatra &/or Panic! At The Disco)
Let’s not wish for earthly things. Let us put our minds to patiently watching (a.k.a. HOPE) for Christ’s Second Coming to restore Heaven & Earth. Hope is actively waiting for Christ’s return. Are you ready for him? What do you need to put in order to prepare for His return? Have you even accepted Jesus as your Lord & Savior? What about your loved ones? Have you shared the good news with them? Are they ready?
Christ came to this earth once before as a babe – the baby Jesus. He grew-up just like you & me. Yet, he lived a sinless life. Being without sin, he became the perfect sacrifice who died on the cross bearing the weight & punishment of our sins. He then defeated death and provided us with eternal life, if only you believe in Him as your Lord & Savior. Thru God’s mercy & love, he provided Jesus as the way to save us from our sins.
During this Advent season, let us cleanse our hearts by repenting of our sins and not live in doubt, hate, fear, or despair.
“Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” ~ Hebrews 10:22-23, NIV
By believing as Jesus as our Lord & Saviour, we have eternal life. This is the beginning of faith. Through patience & our knowledge of the Lord we will have hope.
“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.” ~ Romans 15:4, NIV
With this hope, we are able to trust in the Lord and walk with confidence and reassurance. This reassurance then brings peace & security that the Lord is in control, as he always has been, is, and ever will be. Take comfort & rejoice in the Hope of the Lord.
And again, Isaiah says, “The Root of Jesse will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations; in him the Gentiles will hope.” May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. ~ Romans 15:12-13, NIV
