As we enter the Advent season, which literally means "coming," we're reminded that this time of year is all about preparing to celebrate Jesus's arrival on earth. Our church is focusing on passages from Isaiah that speak to both Jesus's first coming and His second coming. This week, with Hope as our theme, we reflected on the hope that Jesus's first coming brought, particularly through His death on the cross, which paid the price for our sins.
This hope not only brings forgiveness but also gives us Jesus's righteousness, allowing us to join Him in Heaven for eternity when He returns.
On Sunday evening, as we enjoyed dinner together, we
delved deeper into the concept of Jesus's Hope and lit our own Advent candle (part
of a wreath my Mom gave us years ago to help us worship). We read passages from
Matthew and Isaiah, including:
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.
As we discussed ways to share the light of Jesus with others and offer them hope, Alexis suggested that we could share the gospel with those around us. In God’s perfect timing, my niece and nephew were having a similar conversation about the gospel with their mom (my sister) on the other side of town. They blurted out that they needed to pray and ask Jesus to come into their lives. So, they made the decision to receive Him as their Lord and Savior!!! We all praised God when we heard the wonderful news!
The kids’ Bible study memory verse for this week was:
I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
My niece and nephew’s decision to confess their sins and invite Jesus into their hearts is a powerful reminder of the gift of Hope Jesus offers. They can now look forward to the day when they will be completely purified in Heaven.
Who do you know that needs the Hope of Jesus this
Advent Season? Will you pray for opportunities to share Jesus with them?
