By Guest Columnist Rev. Patti Hardacre
Advent is the season before Christmas. During this season, we look forward to the coming of Emmanuel.
The four weeks before Christ’s birth are important because we need to live in anticipation of the coming of Christ. Advent is about the amazing grace which comes in the Son of God. There are four words for us to ponder deeply during Advent and Christmas: hope, peace, joy and love.
Christ’s light of grace offers us hope. Grace given by Christ leads us to a future where we can leave behind the shadows of sorrow and suffering and sin and forsakenness. May Christ’s gracious light of hope shine upon us.
Christ’s light of grace also brings us peace. This peace is given to the world which is so overcome with division, violence and conflict. We must allow the light of Christ to bring peace to shine over the world of discord and grief.
The light of Christ’s grace also allows us to have room for joy. We are to be glad in Christ and find joy in his holy kingdom. When we find joy, we can let go of our lamentations, sorrow, and hurt. We can open ourselves to songs and carols of good cheer. Pray for this joy to brighten our lives this season and throughout the year.
The fourth word is love. Christ’s light of grace is grounded in love. This love is given to us rather than receiving judgment for our sins. Jesus’ love for us overcomes all hatred and lovelessness. Show love to others and be covered in the shining light of Christ.
These four simple words for Christmas may change our lives and the lives of others. Let us be prepared to share in hope, peace, joy and love with all of God’s children. Michael Hoy’s simple prayer reminds us: “May we hold firmly to Christ’s amazing grace through faith, and may that grace light the way for our Advent and Christmas.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: Rev. Patti Hardacre is pastor at Wesson’s Decell Memorial United Methodist Church.