Advent Guide
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13 (ESV)
As we gather with friends and family to celebrate this Advent season, gratitude fills my heart for the miraculous power of God’s love.
Christmas is a time of celebration—the twinkling lights, delicious meals, melodies and hymns that bring warmth, and of course— no one wants to forget the gifts. I am always grateful for gifts, the excitement of guessing what it is, unwrapping and then…yes, the happiness of receiving that gift sometimes fades with the season.
The truth is that no material gift can completely satisfy our deepest desires. The joy they bring is temporary. But, there’s good news! Christmas reminds us that our God offers us the greatest gift revealed to man–love and redemption–through Christ Jesus.
In this season, I pray that you find boundless joy and peace in the love of Christ. Remember, Psalm 16:11 assures us that in God’s presence, there is “fullness of joy,” and at His right hand are “pleasures forevermore.”
May you find complete joy and delight in Jesus our Savior, the babe born in a manger who offers us the only lasting gift that promises unspeakable joy!
Merry Christmas!