Story by Merna Short of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

What God has done for me will never be forgotten, the God whose very name is holy, set apart from all others.

Based on the Advent Devotion for Families and Households available at https://account-media.s3.amazonaws.com/26072/uploaded/h/0e18630581_1729692500_hope-is-near-advent-2024-23102024.pdf 

Open: Light a candle or ring a chime.

Ask: Take a few minutes and ask yourself, “When did I feel hope today or yesterday?”

Listen: My firstborn was a daughter. When she was placed in my arms, I looked at her with awe and an overwhelming sense of inadequacy. “Whatever have I done?” I wondered.

Here was this tiny babe, and she was my responsibility. Throughout her life I would have her in my care to nurture physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Leading up to her birth this had not struck me. But now, with such force, it did!

At this time when we celebrate Jesus’ birth, I wonder about what that young girl Mary pondered as she looked at the baby in her arms. This was not even an ordinary baby. This was the Son of God.

Did Mary look with wonder at the reality of what had happened? As we celebrate Jesus’ birth, are we awed by the wonder of God’s message of love?

God did not promise Mary and Joseph an easy passage, but I’m sure God’s message was “I will be with you.” That is the message we are assured of today as we relive the Christmas story. God has promised us, “I will be with you.” What a blessing! What an assurance! Hallelujah! God with us!

Breathe

The season of Advent reminds us that even as we wait for the birth of Christ in our lives and world, God is always with us. Right here, right now—wherever we are and with the ones we love. Take a deep breath and breathe in the presence of God.

Respond

How can you bring hope to others today?

Hug Prayer

Give someone a hug from God. (If they don’t want a hug, that is ok. Open your arms wide and let them know you are holding them close in your heart.)

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.