[week 1]
Hope Is Here

READ ISAIAH 9:2,6-7

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness, a light has dawned…For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, 

Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
Isaiah the prophet spoke these words centuries before the arrival of Jesus. He watched as those who were called the nation of God “close their minds” and “veil their eyes” from the truth. A darkness had descended upon the nation of Israel.  However, Isaiah could see a glimmer of light coming over the distant horizon.  He had hope a better day was coming, a day when peace would prevail once again. He looked forward to the coming of the one who would take on the responsibility of governing with justice and righteousness. Isaiah had such confidence that the “Lord Almighty will accomplish this.” But why? Where did his hope come from?
Isaiah found his hope in the promises of God: 
  • The promise to Abraham — his children will be a great nation inhabiting a promised land. 
  • The promise to Moses — faithful obedience to God results in blessing. 
  • The promise to David — a descendent will reign on his throne, presiding over an eternal kingdom of justice. 
Most of all, Isaiah knew God was faithful to his promises. His unwavering confidence in the promises of God provided him with HOPE. 
Isaiah waited in hope for the arrival of the Messiah. And we too wait in hope for the return of the Messiah. Jesus is coming again to ultimately fulfill all the promises of old and will reign with truth and justice and make all things right. Yes, we have reason for HOPE!

No matter how difficult your current struggle, there is reason for hope in God’s promises.
No matter how distant you may feel, there is reason for hope.
No matter how dark the situation, there is hope.

Because God is faithful to his promises, there is always reason for hope. 

GO DEEPER

  • Think about God’s Promises.
  • Write them down.
  • How might looking forward (to Jesus fulfilling all of God’s promises) strengthen you while you wait? 
Advent 22-2

CHOOSE AN ACTIVITY FOR YOUR FAMILY

As we enter the season of Advent, families have an opportunity to pass down to the next generation the importance of Jesus and the hope, peace, joy and love he brings to us all. Each week of advent, you are encouraged to choose one or more of the family-friendly activities presented below in addition to your other family traditions. You may even start some new traditions along the way. Make sure to emphasize the “why” when you engage in each activity. 
Week 1 – HOPE  
There is always reason for hope, because we trust in the promises of God. 
  • Escape the Christmas hustle and take a short hike or walk together. Recall the long journey that Mary and Joseph took from Nazareth to Bethlehem.
  • As you make and share Christmas wish lists, ask: “What are you hoping for this Christmas that can’t be wrapped?”
  • Clean out a toy bin, closet, or room and have each child choose one (or more!) good-quality items to donate.
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