The brokenness and darkness of our world have never been more tangible to me. We are in the midst of a global pandemic that has been revealing our fragility for months. Racial and political tensions have never been this high in my lifetime. I am deeply saddened by the number of times I have been shocked and disgusted as I watch the news. There are so many people hurting, lonely, and consumed with fear for so many different reasons. I have never wanted to put blinders on my kids eyes so badly because I don’t want them to see this much brokenness before they hit double digits. The world is not as it should be.
But this isn’t where our story ends, hope is coming. I am overjoyed to declare this truth over you and me! This hope isn’t in a vaccine, solid leadership, or dependent on any earthly person or thing. This hope cannot be taken away or diminished. It will never fail us and there is more than enough for each and every one of us. Scarcity is not an issue. I repeat, scarcity is not an issue.
This hope is in Christ’s return.
2020 has been full of grief and loss, but take heart because the Lord often enlarges our soul through these very moments. If we will embrace our losses this Advent season we will be making more room for him in our hearts.
Advent is a time for us to tangibly grasp hope, a hope that will not fade or disappoint. We must be brave and not afraid of the darkness. Only when we are acquainted with darkness can we truly recognize the light. We have all been gifted darkness to some degree this year. It is time to let light shine into the corners of our hearts that we have sealed off. We must open ourselves up to be filled with expectation. Christ will return and restore. He has not been thrown off or surprised. Rest in his hand that is holding all things together and hope for yourself, your loved ones, this world. Hope is coming!
If you are looking for practical Advent resources check out this post.
The Road We Are On 
Hold on to the HOPE! I’m using a different resource for Advent this year. It’s a book called Anticipating the Birth of Jesus, an Advent devotional on Immigration. It’s written by Rundell Trevino who started the Immigration Coalition. I’m ready to jump in!
Speaking of, I’m starting to do a little volunteering with Bridge Refugee Services in Knoxville. I’m hopeful there, as well!
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I want to hear more about this new passion the Lord is stirring in you! I am googling the resource now, sounds amazing. Thanks for stirring a curiosity for a different part of God’s kingdom work in me:) we should talk soon! Sounds like we have a lot to catch up on!
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