Hope

“The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine” (Isaiah 9:2).

In the darkest season of the year, we light the candles of the Advent wreath as a reminder that God is light and there is no darkness in Him at all (1 John 1:5). In the darkest seasons of our lives, the light of God often shines through when we least expect it. Advent reminds us that hope is not just wishful thinking. It is the confident assurance that God is with us. He is always working for our good when we place our trust in Him.

Some hopeful actions you can take: 

• Light a candle every night this week to remind yourself that no darkness can ever extinguish the light of God. 
• Write the scripture verse from Isaiah on a piece of paper and put it where you will see it often. 
• Send an encouraging text to someone who is going through a hard time. 

Peace

“Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased” (Luke 2:14).

Jesus is the Prince of Peace. When the world is chaotic or we experience the uncertainties of life, He offers a peace that the world cannot give. From the first announcement of the angels to the shepherds, the good news of Jesus is that we can experience His constant presence in our daily lives. We can even become messengers of peace to others who need to hear about Him.

Some peaceful actions you can take: 

• Listen to some Christmas carols or hymns that bring you a sense of peace. Let them remind you of the angels’ announcement of peace on earth. 
• Make time each day for some quiet prayer and meditation. Ask God to show you some ways you can share the good news of Jesus during this holy season.
• Each morning, invite Jesus to speak peace to your heart and the hearts of those with whom you will interact that day.

Joy

“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10 NIV).

Joy is our most basic response to God’s presence. When we recognize and receive the hope and peace He offers, we naturally experience the great joy the angel described to the shepherds in Luke 2:10. We rejoice not because everything is perfect, but because God is with us. He does not reserve this gift for just a select few. It is for anyone who will receive the good news of Jesus.    

Some joyful actions you can take:

• Each day this week, make a list of things that bring you joy and thank God for them.
• Listen to some joyful Christmas music. Sing along, even if you don’t think you’re a great singer. Release some joy in the world!
• Spread joy by doing something kind for someone else. Sharing joy actually increases it for both giver and receiver.

Love

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). 

The Christmas story is a love story. The season of Advent invites us to receive God’s love and to share it with others. As we tell and re-tell the story of Jesus’ coming into the world, we cannot help but to be shaped by that story. God’s love changes us and enables us to love others generously – the way Jesus loves us. 

Some loving actions you can take:

• Make room in your heart for love and healing. 
• Forgive someone. Let go of a long-standing grudge or resentment. Be the one who takes the first step toward reconciliation. 
• Do a random act of kindness or two. Pay for someone’s coffee or lunch. Donate to a red kettle, knowing you are anonymously helping someone in need.