First Sunday of Advent: Hope in the Waiting

The first Sunday of Advent reminds us that hope is not wishful thinking—it’s confidence in the God who keeps His promises. As we light the first candle, we remember that even a small flame pushes back the darkness.

“The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light.” — Isaiah 9:2

1. Hope Begins in the Dark

Advent begins by acknowledging the world’s brokenness. God’s people in Isaiah’s day lived with fear and uncertainty, yet God promised a Savior:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given… and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” — Isaiah 9:6

Hope doesn’t wait for perfect circumstances—it begins right where we are, because God speaks and God draws near.

2. Hope Is a Person

Biblical hope is not a feeling—it is rooted in a Person: Jesus Christ.

“And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.” — Matthew 12:21

Our hope is not in our own strength or in our circumstances. Our hope is that Jesus has come, Jesus is with us now, and Jesus will come again.

3. Hope Grows as We Wait

Advent teaches us how to wait with expectation.

“But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.” — Romans 8:25

In the waiting, God strengthens our faith and deepens our trust.

4. Hope Shines Through Us

Because Christ is the Light of the world, His hope is meant to shine through us.

“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.” — Matthew 5:14

Encouragement, generosity, compassion—these are ways Christ’s hope becomes visible in us.

A Short Advent Prayer

Lord Jesus, Light of the world, fill our hearts with hope as we wait for Your return. Help us trust Your promises and reflect Your light to others this Advent season. Amen.

Please remember: the darkness is real, but it is not final—Christ, our Hope, has come.