Today’s scripture: Romans 4:18-25 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Rev. Tammy Mills):
I love this scripture about Abraham. He lived with hope even though it looked as though God’s promise would never be fulfilled. Turns out Abraham’s hope was in the right place, and God’s promise was fulfilled.
In some traditions the first candle in the Advent wreath symbolizes just such hope. It is lit to remind us of all the man and women of faith that have lived in hope.
Theologian Henri Nouwen describes hope as a promise in your heart. “All the great spiritual leaders in history were people of hope. Abraham, Moses, Ruth, Mary, Jesus, Rumi, Gandhi, and Dorothy Day all lived with a promise in their hearts that guided them toward the future without the need to know exactly what it would look like. Let’s live with hope.”
I want to live with that kind of hope this Advent season. As I light the candle of hope I am asking myself, what promise guides my life? I am also challenged to let go of outcomes and trust that the future will be just fine, even if I can’t see it clearly.
Thought for the day: What am I clinging to that keeps me from living without hope?
About the Advent Candles
In some traditions that use five candles, the first candle is called the Candle of Hope and represents the Patriarchs of the faith. The second candle, the Candle of Peace, represents the prophets who foretold of Jesus’ birth. The third candle is the Candle of Love and represents John the Baptist who came to prepare the way for Christ. The fourth candle is called the Candle of Joy and represents Mary, the mother of Jesus. The fifth and final candle, which is usually white, represents Jesus Christ and is lit on Christmas Day.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.