When you think about hope, it is not very hard to think of many different sources for hope. We can find hope in our work or the work of others to make the world a better place. We can discover hope in the inspirational words of leaders, teachers, and preachers.
But there is something unique about the hope that comes from Christ. In Christ we find that God does not stay far away from humanity, but becomes a part of us. This hope assures us that in the midst of our lives and world, God will be near to us. In Advent we wait in this hope and discover anew how God has been, is, and will be near to us.
When you are ready, click on “The Word of God” below for today's scripture and then continue to follow the remaining steps of the devotion.
But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap; he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, until they present offerings to the Lord in righteousness. Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years.
Malachi 3:2-4
I sometimes think the things that keep me away from God are my own desires. I want to live a good life, but I also want to enjoy all the things life has to offer. Maybe you have felt this way or at least felt the fear of missing out on something.
I do not think God’s coming in our lives frees us from these feelings. But I do think maybe it helps us to see things differently. Meeting God gives us the hope for lives that find meaning in our relationships, more than consuming entertainment, or the fear of being left out. I think that this is God’s refining love and the hope that comes from knowing Christ.
Andrew Kellner
God help me to take more time for others, for my friends, family, and the people I meet. Help me to find meaning in being present with others, and share your hope with them. Amen.
Look for hope today.
Look for hope on the faces of the people you meet.
Look for hope in the midst of pain.
Give hope to those you meet and be Christ in the world.