Sunday - Promised Hope
WEEK ONE - HOPE
Written by Emily Hall, Missions Pastor
PROMISED HOPE
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Isaiah 9:2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.
John 1:15 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
We called it “Running the Lights.” Years ago, my daughters and I began this Christmas tradition. Putting on our running shoes, we’d begin our trek a couple of miles out from downtown right at dusk. By the time we neared the courthouse square, the darkness had fully settled in and then it happened- the first awe-inspiring glow of Christmas lights in the distance.
With the first glimpse we intuitively quickened our pace. The closer we came, the more the lights drew us in, until finally we were running under a wondrous canopy of festive beauty. It felt almost otherworldly—like stepping out of darkness and into light. I’ve never forgotten the truth lived in those moments- light has a way of
calling us forward.
Seven hundred years before Jesus was born, Isaiah spoke to a people surrounded by darkness- invasion, oppression, and despair. And yet, into this deep darkness, God breathed hope- a great light is coming. That promise ultimately was fulfilled when Jesus, Light Himself, broke into this world
of darkness.
Every time I sing “O Holy Night” and come to the words, “A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices, for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn,” I’m awed at that moment. Messiah came. Dawn broke. The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. No wonder the hymn crescendos “Fall on your knees!
Today, it’s easy to feel the heaviness of this world’s darkness. The headlines, the constant noise of social media, the division all around- it can weigh us down. But Advent reminds us to reset our hearts on the unconquerable light of Christ. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” ( John 1:5)
Let’s ask ourselves. Where do I need His light to break into the darkness? Where do I long for His hope to rise like dawn?
Because of this wonder of Christ in us, we too are called “the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:14) We are to let His light shine through us. This Advent, how might God be inviting you to let His light break forth into an area of darkness?
PRAYER:
Lord, as we enjoy the lights this season, may our hearts be stirred with wonder that Light has come into the darkness and that the darkness will never overcome it. Help me to walk in Your light today. Amen.