The Wonderful Season of Advent November 29, 2020 - December 5, 2020 - HOPE and PEACE

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  By Marilyn Okoye (Originally Published on 11/23/2020.  Modified, 11/30/2020)


A Prayer for Hope:  Heavenly Father, 2020 has been a year filled with uncertainty, grief, fear, and doubt.  My prayer over these next few weeks is that the God of hope will fill us as we put our trust in you. I pray that the peace of God that passes all understanding would guard our hearts and minds.  I pray that you comfort those that have lost loved ones and make provision for those who have lost their jobs. I pray for a firm foundation to rebuild our communities at the local, state, and federal levels.  I pray for healing in our land, both naturally and spiritually. In Jesus' name Amen. 

The Season of Advent is a time of referential reflection of the birth of Christ and the joyous anticipation of His triumphant return.  Advent, which means “coming” or “arrival”, is a time for us to celebrate and anticipate which was, and is, and is to come.  Advent usually begins with the last Sunday in November or the 1st Sunday in December and lasts 21 to 28 days through Christmas Eve.  This year, Advent began on Sunday, November 29, 2020.  Celebrating Advent in the home allows for a time of unity because everyone can participate.   

Preparing for Advent starts by placing a wreath (real or artificial) in a central area, usually the dining table.  Place three purple and one pink candle around the wreath and a white candle in the center.  The wreath represents God and his endless love and mercy towards us and our hope in Him.  The candle lighting symbolizes the light of God coming into the world through Jesus Christ, the second of the triune trinity.  The first purple candle represents HOPE, and the other purple candles represent LOVE and PEACE.  The pink candle represents JOY.  On the first Sunday, light one purple candle representing our hope in the Son of God.  On the subsequent Sunday, light the two purple candles.  Pray and read scriptures focused on peace.  On the third Sunday, light all the purple candles, with the focus on love.  The following Sunday, light the pink candle pray to express the joy we have in Jesus.  On Christmas day, all the candles are lighted, including the white candle representing Christ's birth. 

There are calendars with daily readings available online or in your local stores during this 21/28 day celebration.  Celebrating Advent provides an opportunity for family devotion.  A time of Hope, Love, Joy, Peace, and Faith in a Savior who gave His life that we might have life more abundantly.  

Recommended Readings November 29, 2020 - December 5, 2020 Hope and Peace

 Isaiah 9:2, 6-7 NIV

Psalm 4:8 NIV

Romans 15:13 NIV

Philippians 4:7 NIV

Jeremiah 29:11 NIV





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