LIGHT AND HOPE

Just like darkness is the absence of light, despair is the absence of hope.  As we transition from our series entitled Between Two Mountains, we light the candle of Hope on the first Sunday of Advent, one of four Sundays where we celebrate Christ’s birth, the other following three candles representing Peace, Joy and Love.  As Pastor Mark represented during the first lighting this past Sunday, light is power.  And as Pastor Harry taught us in the same session, Paul’s mission in life following his conversion was to bring the Light to all people.  Likewise, the righteous and devout man of Jerusalem, Simeon, used the term “light” in describing Jesus when his parents brought him into the temple in Luke 2:32 (ESV) “a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel”.  We have all been there, in the darkness, without hope.  Problems happen when you can’t see clearly, stumbling around without direction, feeling your way along without purpose in life.  You’re in the dark when problems arise without the strength of faith.  You’re in the dark about your future.  You can’t see clearly unless you know the Light of the world. Without Jesus, you are without hope, which is why we, as Mosaic Christ-followers, celebrate the first week of Advent featuring Hope.  Our hope is built on a relationship with God the Father through God the Son.  God wants a relationship with you.  He wants to know you now so you can spend eternity with Him.  This mortal life you lead is preparation for eternity.  God has done everything possible so that you can get to know Him, including coming to earth Himself in the form of a human.  A relationship with Him is based on faith.  You must choose to put your trust in Jesus.  You must choose to accept His love and forgiveness.  Just as in Paul’s mission, this is for anyone and everyone.  This season is not about what’s under the tree.  It’s about who hung on a cross for our sins.  Starting now through at least Christmas, let’s focus on the Light.