Advent Week 1: Anticipation of Hope

Isaiah 40:3-5: “A voice cries out: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised, and every mountain and hill shall be made low; the crooked shall become straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.'”

The first week of Advent marks the beginning of a season of preparation and anticipation for Christmas. This week is traditionally associated with hope, a sense of longing, and confidence in the promise of something good to come. Just as the prophets of old looked forward to the coming of the Messiah, we, too, are invited to embrace the spirit of expectation during this sacred time.

The first week of Advent reminds us that we are not alone in our yearning for something more, something beyond the ordinary. We are part of a long line of people who have hoped for a savior, a light in the darkness, a reason to believe in the world’s goodness. This hope is not based on wishful thinking or fleeting emotions; it is grounded in the unshakeable belief that God is with us, always present, always working to bring about good in the world.

As we embark on this journey of Advent, let us open our hearts to the promise of hope. Let us allow ourselves to be filled with anticipation for Christmas’s joy and wonder. Remember that we are not waiting in vain; we are waiting for the arrival of the One who will bring peace, love, and salvation to the world.