Hope

Advent – Coming or Arrival Preparing to celebrate the birth of Jesus in his first Advent, remembering His presence in our lives right now, and anticipating of the return of Christ the King in his Second Advent.

6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 NIV

“25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.” Luke 2:25 NIV

26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah.” Luke 2:26 NIV

Hope is not expecting something to happen because we convince ourselves that it will. Hope is eager expectation that God is going to do what He says.

Willingness to wait reveals the value we place on what we’re waiting for.

“27 Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts “27 Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts.” Luke 9:27 NIV

When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required,,28 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: 29 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace.

30 For my eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” Luke 2:28-32 NIV

In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. Hebrews 1:1-2 NIV

34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.” Luke 2:34-35 NIV

21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21 NIVsins.”

3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ 3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. 1 Peter 1:3-4 NIV

14 “Do not let your hearts be troubled 14 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. John 14:1-3 NIV

If you knew Jesus was returning tomorrow, what would you do today If you knew Jesus was returning tomorrow, what would you do today? If you knew Jesus was returning tomorrow how would you feel today?