For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. (Romans 8:24-25)
Looking forward to, and planning a, celebration creates anticipation. The build-up can include hard work and the event a bit full-on. The memories that are created are long lasting.
Advent is such a season, of looking forward, anticipating and knowing that the celebration will come. The invitation of this season is to centre ourselves on preparing to give thanks for the birth of Christ. The traditional Advent themes of hope, peace, joy and love reflect what Christ gifts us, and what we focus on in this season.
We also enter into Advent in the reality of the world around us. Our news makes us aware of the trials posed by natural disaster, racism, violence, war and turmoil. It can be deeply discouraging. Particularly when we see little resolution or justice emerging.
In Advent we are called to honesty about the situation we are in and to look beyond all of this to what is coming. This interweaving of hope and discouragement is foundational as we look forward. To have one without the other is very limiting. Our hope has meaning because it addresses and balances our discouragement.
Personal strength and courage are based on both being present. We are nurtured and renewed in our looking forward and equipped to be present in the realities of the present moment.
May this season of Advent be a source of encouragement and deep hope.
Rev John Gilmore
NCCA President