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First Sunday of Advent

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for,
the evidence of things unseen.- Hebrews 11:1

This past Sunday was the first Sunday of Advent, and its theme in the liturgy is “hope.”  Much like the word “love” today, “hope” has evolved to take on many different meanings depending on the situation and context in which it is used.  “I hope we’re having tacos tonight” is certainly not the same hope as the hope that we have in Jesus.  It seems to me that the truest meaning of the word hope has been largely lost today.

In the new testament, the words “hope” and “faith” are almost synonymous.  Hope is an expectation for the future.  Faith is how we live based on the things we hope for.  The result of both is evidence of the true, but invisible.  In God’s court our hope and faith are admissible as proof of the goodness and love of God and the truth of the gospel.

In this time of Advent, may your hope be in the one who is eternally unfailing and steadfast in love and mercy, and may his favor dwell richly with you this Christmas season.

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