Making Room for Hope: Advent Week 1

By Pastor Marcus L. Heffinger

Advent is here — a season of waiting, preparing, and hoping. It’s a time to pause and reflect, not just on the story of Christmas but on the promises of God that anchor our faith. Advent reminds us that even in the busyness and distractions of life, we are called to make room for Christ.

This first week of Advent centers on hope—not the kind of fleeting optimism we often associate with the word, but a deep, unshakable confidence in God’s faithfulness.

What Is Hope?

Hope is one of the greatest gifts God has given us. It’s the light that shines in the darkness, the assurance that no matter how uncertain life may feel, God’s promises remain true.

In Jeremiah 33:14-16, God speaks through the prophet:
“‘Behold, the days are coming,’ says the LORD, ‘that I will perform that good thing which I have promised.’”

For the people of Israel, this was a promise of restoration in the midst of exile—a glimmer of hope when life seemed hopeless. For us, this promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the righteous Branch from the line of David.

Christ is the hope we cling to, both in the joy of His birth and the promise of His return.

Hope Shines in the Darkness

Have you ever been in total darkness? Even the smallest light can make all the difference. This is the kind of hope we celebrate during Advent: a light that breaks through even the deepest shadows.

Isaiah captures this beautifully:
“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined.” (Isaiah 9:2)

Jesus is that light. He Himself declared:
“I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” (John 8:12)

This is the hope we carry, no matter what we face in life. Even when circumstances feel overwhelming—when we’re weighed down by fear, grief, or uncertainty—the light of Christ shines brighter.

Living Expectantly

Advent is not just a season to look back on Christ’s birth; it’s also a season to look forward to His return. Jesus told His disciples in Luke 21:28:
“Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.”

This is the heart of Advent: living with expectation, preparing our hearts, and aligning our lives with God’s will. The Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 3:13:
“So that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints.”

Advent calls us to clear away the clutter of life and make room for Christ, not just at Christmas but every day.

How Can We Make Room for Hope?

This Advent, let’s take practical steps to invite hope into our lives:

Remove distractions. What’s taking up space in your heart that belongs to God? Clear out anything that’s keeping you from fully embracing Him.
Trust in God’s promises. Reflect on the times God has been faithful in your life and let that assurance fuel your hope.
Live with expectancy. Hope isn’t passive—it’s active. Prepare your heart daily for Christ’s presence, knowing He is with you now and will return one day.

Join Us This Advent Season

This week, we light the first candle of Advent—the candle of hope. Together, let’s reflect on God’s promises, embrace His light, and prepare our hearts for the celebration of Christ’s birth and the anticipation of His return.

Join us this Sunday at The Ashland Church of God as we journey through Advent. Whether you’re new to faith or have been walking with Christ for years, there is a place for you here.

Blessings,
Pastor Marcus L. Heffinger