Week 1 – Expectation and Hope
First Sunday of Advent – November 27, 2022
The first candle we light during Advent represents Expectation and Hope, reminding us that though we wait for the fulfillment of all things, the presence of Christ is with us and guiding us toward the joyful day of His return.
- Scripture – Luke 21:25-31
“There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” - Scripture Reflection
Advent is not merely a time of remembrance, but a time of anticipation. The story of Advent is not just that of a baby in a manger, but of the triumphant return of the king. Even as we recall God’s redemption of the world through the Incarnation, Crucifixion, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, we do so in order to point forward to his imminent return that brings the resurrection of all of creation. The world doesn’t understand this movement towards renewal in Christ, and even pushes back against it; because, when Jesus comes – into the heart of a believer, into the heart of a community, into the world in victory – everything changes and the former hierarchies and priorities are turned upside down. But no matter how much the world rages against Christ and those who follow him, our Lord has reminded us to “raise our heads,” to lift our chins in order to walk with confidence and courage, for he has redeemed us. Therefore, we can begin now to live in the victory, the power, and the Hope of the Kingdom of God which has come and is coming here on earth as it is in heaven. - Prayer
Heavenly Father, we give thanks for your promises
And the Hope we have in your Son Jesus Christ.
Because of his sacrifice, we can receive forgiveness from our sin,
And stand confident with Expectation,
Knowing that he is bringing all things under submission.
Lift our heads, we pray, and fix our eyes on his Kingdom,
Both in our midst and in the age to come.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.