The Advent theme this year is “Hope Is Near.” Mary’s Magnificat is the central scriptural focus. The theme and scripture are an invitation to see the places where hope is already emerging among us even as we wait for the birth of Christ in our lives and world. The Advent Devotion for Families and Households  provides an outline each day to reflect on where we have seen hope and how we are invited to be hope to others in the days ahead. The Daily Bread for December will follow the rhythm of this devotion.

And Mary said, I’m bursting with God-news; I’m dancing the song of my Savior God. God took one good look at me, and look what happened—I’m the most fortunate woman on earth! What God has done for me will never be forgotten, the God whose very name is holy, set apart from all others. [God’s] mercy flows in wave after wave on those who are in awe before [God]…[God] knocked tyrants off their high horses, pulled victims out of the mud. The starving poor sat down to a banquet; the callous rich were left out in the cold. [God] embraced [the] chosen child, Israel;…remembered and piled on the mercies, piled them high. It’s exactly what [God] promised, beginning with Abraham and right up to now.

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?”

Look: Prayerfully gaze at the image above that represents a modern version of Mary’s Magnificat. What do you see in the picture? What do you imagine Mary (pregnant with Jesus) is saying to the people in her community about God’s hope? If you were in this image, where would you be?

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?

Heart-Word Prayer

Take a moment to listen to the one word your heart is saying right now. Say that word out loud. Close by saying, “Amen.”

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.