An Advent List: 3 Ways to Practice HOPE

There are many passages in scripture that talk about hope.  One of my favorites is Isaiah 40:31: 

“But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

Are you feeling weary this season?  I am. 

Finances are tight, our kids are growing up and becoming independent, we have not been able to visit my parents in the USA this year, one of my uncle’s passed away this month, and I was unable to visit.  I have spent way too much time watching screens this year (Zoom meetings, Teams calls, and Netflix), and I wish I knew when this pandemic might end.

The first Sunday of Advent focuses on hope that we receive through the gift of Jesus. 

3 Suggestions for HOPE

Here are three simple suggestions to help us celebrate our hope in Christ:

1. Spend time reflecting on God’s promises to us.  (You can start with Psalm 100:5, Nahum 1:7, Jer. 29:11, Matt. 6:31-33, John 14:15-16 or do a Google Search on God's promises.)
2. Make a list of things you are thankful for in 2020.
3. Write an email or text to a friend or family member and tell them why you are thankful to have them in your life.

This blog, which is the first in our Advent List series, has been written by Dr. Craig Kraft, the Executive Director of Outreach Canada.