Clinging to Hope: An Advent StudyEgzanp

THE OBJECT OF OUR HOPE

We learn through today’s passage in Luke that Zechariah and Elizabeth were Israelites who believed that God had not forsaken them and that the Messiah would someday come. While others walked away, they remained faithful. Because their hope was in God and his promises, they continued to live in anticipation of the Messiah’s arrival.

In the psalmist's words from the reading today, “And now, O Lord, for what do I wait?”

As you experience this advent season, put your hope in Jesus and his promises. Let go of what the world offers – the temporary source of hope. The object of your hope determines how you live your life.

Pause to Pray: Use this simple tool for a moment of silence and solitude.

1- Take ten deep breaths – with each inhale, pray silently “Jesus,” and on the exhale, pray, “My hope is in You.”

2- Read Psalm 39:7 multiple times. Invite God to examine your heart and mind.

3- Form your prayer around anything God reveals to you (praise, confession, thanksgiving, requests).

Take a Next Step: Do something TODAY to actively put your hope in Jesus!