Light the Candle: Hope

 

Allison Holsclaw

Hope.

The candle of hope is all about the anticipation of the Messiah’s arrival. This candle is often called the candle of prophecy, because it reminds and assures us that God fulfills the promises he makes for us, just like he promised and brought Jesus to save us. He has not failed once and he won’t ever fail.

The Israelites experienced a lot throughout the Old Testament, but this helps us recognize the hope they had as they prayed for a Messiah to save them from their enemies and their sin too. 

“God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might bring Israel to repentance and forgive their sins.”

— ‭‭Acts‬ ‭5‬:‭31‬‬

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.”

— ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭9‬:‭6‬-‭7‬‬

Because of the Israelites had hope, we can be reminded that we took can have hope in our darkest days too. He is a God who keeps his promises and our hope alone can only be found in him. 

Lord, remind us that each day and week that we come closer to your return because we know your promises never fail and always come true. Turn our hearts to you. Fill us with hope as we learn more about your first coming and as we wait for the return too. 

Amen. 

Be full of hope in remembering his faithfulness for the Israelites and remember he will come back too. Remind yourself of the love of Jesus because his birth shows the Love of God. Nothing is too difficult for our God.