good news {hope}

I've decided to start a new series for this holiday season, following the four weeks of Advent. Advent is an ancient Christian tradition, celebrating this season of preparation and an anticipation for the birth of Christ. I know there will be lots of gift guides and holiday projects popping up on blogs this season (mine included), and the spirit of giving is certainly integral to Christmas, but it's the coming of Christ that inspires us to give and serve one another, and I'd like to take the time to reflect on that. Many churches light one candle each Sunday on the four weeks leading up to Christmas. I'm following that pattern, with the themes of hope, peace, joy and love. For the next four Tuesdays, I'll post on one of those themes and how Christ has brought the gifts of hope, peace, joy and love into my life. 

hope

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness -- on them light has shined. -Isaiah 9:2

Just a few weeks after we moved to Texas, we got word that my Grandpa's health was quickly declining. He had been ill for some time, but it had gotten drastically worse. Amidst the feelings of culture shock and discomfort that come with moving to a new place, I was now grieving the impending loss of my Grandfather. Just two days later, he died surrounded by my Grandma, his children and lots of hymns and prayers. 

The next day, I boarded a plane for Seattle, still a bit in shock and longing to be with my family. Because I had booked the flight so last-minute, I was in the middle seat of the last row on the plane. Sitting on my right was an older African-American gentleman with a thick accent. He started to ask about where I was from, and where I was going. I told him I was headed to Central Washington for my Grandpa's funeral. He looked me in the eye, nodded and said, "I'm so sorry."

A few seconds later, he looked up at me again and said, "Did he know the Lord?"

I smiled. "He did," I said.

"Ahh, then this is a homecoming!"

What a beautiful reminder that there is hope in death. That because of Christ's coming and because of his love and sacrifice for us, death is not the end, but a homecoming. This stranger on a plane (who later patted my back gently while my I held that little baggie as my body revolted against the turbulence) reminded me of the hope of Christ, even in times of darkness. And I have full confidence that if I hadn't been a believer, he would have boldly shared the gospel of Christ with me.

Hope is knowing that death and darkness have no power against our Savior.

Hope is trusting that God knows exactly what he's doing at all times, and that it is for our good.

Hope is living in anticipation of the homecoming.

Lord as we look to the birth of Jesus, grant that the light of your love for us will help us to become lights in the lives of those around us. Prepare our hearts for the joy and gladness of your coming, for Jesus is our hope. Amen.

xoxo.

[prayer and verse via]