A Thrill of Hope – Advent Devotional Week 1
In the busyness and weariness of the season, Advent invites us to pause and pray. Join with Christ our Refuge as we explore the hope, comfort, grace, and light of Christ’s coming through ancient prayers and timeless truths.
Follow along with these readings and reflections in the lead-up to Christmas.
WEEK 1: A PRAYER OF HOPE FOR THE WAITING
Almighty God, give us grace that we may cast away the works of darkness and put on the armour of light, now in the time of this mortal life in which your Son Jesus Christ came among us in great humility; that on the last day, when he comes again in his glorious majesty to judge the living and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen. (AAPB 1978)
Day 1: Longing for Hope
Read Isaiah 9:1-7
Amid darkness and despair, Isaiah paints a picture of hope—a child who will bring light, joy, and peace. This prophecy reminds us that God sees our struggles and provides a way forward. Advent invites us to long for and anticipate God’s intervention in our lives as we wait for His promises to unfold.
Reflect: Where in your life do you most need God’s light to shine today?
Day 2: Arrival of Hope
Read Matthew 1:18-25
The birth of Jesus fulfils God’s promises and brings hope for all. Jesus—“God saves”—came to save His people from their sins. Immanuel, God with us, stepped into our brokenness to rescue and redeem us through His perfect life, sacrificial death, and triumphant resurrection.
Reflect: How does the gospel—Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection—shape your gratitude for His first coming?
Day 3: Come Receive Hope
Read Matthew 11:28-30
Jesus invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him and find rest. His yoke is easy, His burden light. The hope of Advent isn’t just for the distant past or the future—it’s for today. Jesus’ invitation is gentle and personal. It’s an opportunity to lay down our burdens and rest in His grace.
Reflect: What burdens do you need to release to Jesus today?
Day 4: Living with Hope
Read Romans 13:8-14
The hope we have in Jesus transforms the way we live. Paul calls us to cast off the works of darkness and put on the armour of light, living as children of the day. This isn’t about earning God’s favour but reflecting the hope and light of Christ in how we live and love.
Reflect: How can you live as a light to others this week?
Day 5: Hope Will Return
Read Revelation 21:1-4
Advent reminds us to not only celebrate Christ’s first coming but also anticipate His return. The promise of a new heaven and earth where every tear is wiped away fills us with hope. As we wait for this day, we can live with confidence, joy, and purpose, sharing the hope of Jesus with others.
Reflect: How does the promise of Christ’s return shape your daily priorities and perspective?
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Listen to our current Advent teaching series – A THRILL OF HOPE – via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or christrefuge.co/sermons