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These days, it can be hard to see past the heaviness that comes with living in chaotic and tumultuous times. Yet the beginning of the liturgical season of Advent yesterday reminds us that holding onto hope is central to our faith. In such a time as this, we need to remember that the Bible was largely written by people under siege, people in exile, and people living under brutal occupation. Yet its message, including of new life in Jesus, continues to offer us hope, peace, joy, and love. Today, we share a hopeful message Lori K from Alaska sent us last week:
“In these very difficult days since the election, it is easy to feel isolated and alone. On the day after the election I had a phone call from an old, very dear friend who needed to connect with someone who would understand her despair and fear. Since that day, we have continued to email one another and talk at least once a week. This connection/reconnection has been a light in the darkness. ... I have renewed several old friendships and found hope and even joy in these deep relationships. I believe this is one critical way I/we will move forward.”
Our prayer today comes from the Revised Common Lectionary’s prayer for the first Sunday of Advent:
God of justice and peace,
from the heavens you rain down mercy and kindness,
that all on earth may stand in awe and wonder
before your marvelous deeds.
Raise our heads in expectation,
that we may yearn for the coming day of the Lord
and stand without blame before your Son, Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.
— Rev. Moya Harris, Director of Racial Justice, Sojourners
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