My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness. LSB 575:1a Advent is a season for us to grow in hope. We gather amid a world that in many ways seems hopeless. Extremists on both ends of the political spectrum seem to control almost everything we hear, read, and see. Deep divisions over race, politics, and economics loom over us like a dark storm cloud. How can the Church possibly make a difference in all of this? Today’s Readings acknowledge the distress and fear that the world’s foundations are being shaken. And right in the middle of it all, there is hope. Jesus says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away” (Luke 21:33). The prophet Jeremiah declares God’s promise to restore His people and all creation. If we were left to ourselves, there would be little room for such hope. But God does not leave us alone. By His Word and Sacraments, God establishes our hearts and prepares us for Jesus’ coming final restoration. Until that day, we wait, we pray, we hope.
Calligraphy & Art by: Barbara Darrah
BIBLE READINGS: Jeremiah 33:14-16 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 Luke 21:25-36