Hope Has Arrived

by Will Hopson, Outreach Pastor

Today marks the first Sunday of Advent, a season rich with meaning and anticipation. Advent, meaning “arrival,” is an invitation—a call to pause, reflect, and prepare our hearts for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. The Advent wreath symbolizes this preparation with five candles representing hope, faith, joy, peace, and Christ. Today, we light the first candle: the Hope Candle, also known as the Prophet’s Candle, which reminds us of the promises made through the prophets and the hope fulfilled in Jesus.

Let’s embrace the childlike anticipation that my three-year-old, Judah, lives out so naturally this season. His excitement for Christmas—whether it’s marveling at our neighbor's inflatable Grinch or counting down the days—is a vivid reminder of how we should approach the celebration of Christ’s birth. Advent is about more than decorations and music; it’s about uncontainable joy for the greatest gift ever given—Jesus.

Hope Promised

In the Old Testament, prophets like Isaiah spoke words of hope during turbulent times. Isaiah 7:14 proclaims:
"Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel."
This was a promise to a weary and questioning people. Just as Israel held onto God’s promises, we too can trust that God sees us, hasn’t forgotten us, and brings us hope.

Hope Arrived

The fulfillment of these promises is beautifully captured in Luke 2, where angels announce Jesus' birth to shepherds:
"Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people."
The hope of the Old Testament became a reality—a Savior, born for us, changing everything. The shepherds couldn’t contain their joy; they shared it with everyone they met. Their encounter with Jesus was transformative.

Hope Sustains

Hope isn’t fleeting; it sustains us through life’s challenges. Hebrews 11:1 reminds us:
"Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."
This enduring hope carries us through pain, uncertainty, and waiting. It’s not just wishful thinking—it’s a confident assurance in God’s promises.

Hope Shared

Hope isn’t meant to be kept; it’s meant to be shared. Like the shepherds, we’re called to share the Good News of Jesus. Who in your life needs to hear about the hope you’ve found? This Christmas, invite someone to church, to the Lowcountry Christmas experience, or Christmas Eve services. Let’s be a church that overflows with hope and joy, bringing light to those around us.

Advent invites us to reflect, celebrate, and share. Who will you share this hope with as you go about your week? Let’s live with anticipation and make this season about the hope that transforms lives—Jesus Christ.