Embracing the Advent Spirit: A Week of Hope and Reflection

As we bid farewell to the first week of Advent, let's take a moment to reflect on the journey we've embarked upon. If you need a quick recap, click here

Week One: The Radiance of Hope

In a world draped in darkness, pain, uncertainty, and sin, the concept of hope emerges as a beacon of light. As I delved into the scriptures this week, unraveling lessons for you, I found myself learning and discovering some amazing things.

Unveiling the Meaning of the Wreath

Did you know that the Advent wreath, a common sight during this season, symbolizes life? I did not and I found it fascinating that the circular shape, represents the eternity of God, the immortality of the soul, and the everlasting life we find in Christ. Growing up Catholic, I was accustomed to seeing the wreath on the kitchen table with its candles illuminating each week. However, I never fully grasped the depth of its symbolism—the unfolding narrative leading to the birth of Christ.

A Week of Hopeful Scriptures

This past week, themed around Hope, was a daily journey through scriptures, offering passages to inspire hope, even in the messiness of life. Each day, whether you feel ordinary, burdened by shame, or entangled  in secrets, the message echoed loud and clear: YOU ARE WORTHY! YOU are LOVED! YOU are cherished! And YOU can have HOPE.

The Genesis of Hope

Day one led us to Genesis 1, where hope began with God bringing light into the darkness, separating the light from the darkness. Even if you find yourself in a dark place, devoid of light, remember that God still separates darkness from light. His promises endure.

Day two delved into Genesis 3:8-15, recounting Eve's encounter with the tempting apple. How often do we get distracted by shiny things, forgetting God?  Choices have consequences, yet God remains ready to embrace and clothe us, as witnessed in Adam and Eve's story.

Ordinary Families, Extraordinary Redemption

Day three unfolded an ordinary family's tale, one that would likely appear as the epitome of happiness on social media. But behind the facade, we discover a struggle for motherhood, a maid feeling like a doormat, and a husband attempting to fix what he can't. It's a reminder that people often hide behind perfect images, substances, or actions to mask the truth. God sees beyond the façade, offering love, believing in your worthiness, and calling you to HOPE.

Transformative Change in Hot Mess Central

Day four took us to Genesis 49:8-10, introducing us to Judah, a character embodying 'hot mess central.' Judah's transformation from orchestrating his brother's sale into slavery to becoming an instrument for God's glory offers a beacon of hope. If you feel like a 'hot mess,' remember, it's never too late to change. YOU are WORTHY, and God can use you, just as He did with Judah.

The Lamb's Blood and Your Worthiness

Day five we found ourselves in the book of Exodus 12:21-28, a foreshadowing of Jesus as the Lamb of God. The story of Moses instructing God's people to slaughter a perfect white lamb and paint their doorposts with its blood is a powerful image. Jesus, the Lamb of God, painted you in His blood, offering protection from darkness. Remember, you are WORTHY of the light.

God's Love Despite Broken Promises

Day six recounted Exodus 32:11-14, 30-32, showcasing God rescuing His people from Egypt, making promises, and forming a covenant, only to witness them breaking it. How often do we find ourselves making promises to God, only to break them? Despite our shortcomings, God LOVES us, and we are WORTHY of His LOVE and Grace.

A Week of Hope, Redemption, and Worthiness

As we conclude this week of Hope, it's essential to recognize that if you see yourself in any of these stories, you are not alone. I see myself in each of them, and that realization, in itself, fills me with hope. I hope the same holds true for you.

Remember, even in your darkest hour, during your lowest low, hope is never truly lost. Look to the cross, pull up a second chair, light a candle, get quiet, and ask God to give you light and hope. He promises, and He delivers

XO,

Amy,

aka Worthy