Advent: A Sunday of Hope

During Advent, God’s people look back upon Christ’s coming in celebration, while at the same time look forward in eager anticipation and hope for the coming of Christ’s kingdom when he returns for his people. In this light, the Advent hymn “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” perfectly represents the church’s cry during the Advent season: O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel.

First Sunday of Advent
The Reading: Jeremiah 33:14-16

The days are coming, says the LORD,
when I will fulfill the promise
I made to the house of Israel and Judah.
In those days, in that time,
I will raise up for David a just shoot ;
he shall do what is right and just in the land.
In those days Judah shall be safe
and Jerusalem shall dwell secure;
this is what they shall call her:
“The LORD our justice.”

God of justice,
Come among us anew this Advent season.
Come into our hearts that we might be safe.
Come into our souls that we might dwell secure.
Come into our thoughts that we might seek justice in our world.
Welcome. We wait for you in hope!
O come, O come, Emmanuel.

Amen.