Faithful Expectations
Friday, December 22
Faithful Expectations
Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1
As we embark on this Advent journey, the essence of faith takes center stage. Hebrews 11:1 beautifully encapsulates the spirit of this season — a season marked by anticipation, hope, and the unseen promises that lie ahead. Hebrews 11:1 says “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen”. Notice “things hoped for” and “things not seen.” Yes, we are asked to apply assurance to something your five senses can’t detect. It’s a challenge. The plus side is that hope, through Christ, is available to you no matter what you see, hear, or feel. It’s above your circumstances. It’s above what the next few days will unfold for you.
Advent invites us to cultivate faith, not just in the tangible decorations and festive cheer, but in the profound truth that God fulfills His promises. The faith spoken of here is more than a passive belief; it’s a dynamic confidence in the certainty of God’s provision, even when the evidence is yet to unfold.
Consider the faith of Mary, who, despite not fully understanding the magnitude of God’s plan, said “yes” to being the vessel through which the Savior would enter the world. Her faith rested not in what her eyes could see but in the trustworthiness of God’s word.
This Advent, let us mirror that kind of faith — a confidence in the promises of God, a certainty about the unseen, and an unwavering hope in the arrival of our Savior. The very essence of the season is the assurance that what we hope for is grounded in the faithfulness of God.
As we light the first candle, may it symbolize the flicker of faith in our hearts, growing brighter with each passing day. Let this Advent be a journey of deepening trust, confident in the promises of a faithful God who brings light to our darkest moments.
Prayer for today: Heavenly Father, thank you for the indescribable gift of your Son, Jesus Christ. As we begin this Advent journey, ignite within us a flame of unwavering faith. May we find confidence in the promises of your Word, and may our anticipation be grounded in the assurance of your faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.