The First Sunday of Advent

My Brothers & Sisters

Today, the first Sunday of Advent, marks the beginning of the new Liturgical/Christian year, with the theme of hope and the promise of God’s reign in Jesus Christ. Advent means “coming,” and the church celebrates the coming of Jesus in history, mystery, and majesty.

History

Although Advent is a time of waiting for the coming of Jesus, we know historically that Jesus was born of Mary centuries ago in a small town called Bethlehem. We affirm that he lived and died and rose again for the salvation of the world.

Mystery

As Christians, we believe our Risen Saviour lives in our hearts and minds in and through the Holy Spirit, also in His Word and Sacraments.

Majesty

We confess that Jesus will come in power and majesty to judge the living and the dead and that His Kingdom will have no end.

We are an Advent people celebrating the coming of Jesus historically, while acknowledging his presence with and in us, and preparing for his final Advent. It is therefore important to be vigilant and be prepared for his coming, whether at Christmas or at the end of the age.

The Candle of Hope

On this first Sunday, we will light the candle of hope, which symbolizes the anticipation of Hope in the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. The three remaining candles, which symbolize Peace, Joy, and Love, are lit on the following Sundays during Advent. Together, each of the four candles tells a part of the Christmas story — the narrative of the birth of Christ in Bethlehem.

Hope in the Midst of Hurricane Melissa

Recently, our country faced the devastation brought by Hurricane Melissa, which destroyed lives, homes, crops, and even some of our church buildings. Amid this tragedy, we hold onto the mystery of our faith: that the Spirit of our Risen and Ascended Christ lives in us and walks with us through this ‘vale of tears’ and leads us on to a glorious tomorrow.

Despite the loss and hardship, we find hope in the promise of rebuilding—trusting that, with God’s help and the support of one another, restoration is possible. We confess that Jesus will come in power and majesty to renew all things, and we look forward to a future filled with hope and healing.