Hope and Love

Hope and Love.
The first two candles in Advent.

Buzz words for sure.
Especially love.
A term thrown around.
Used to make a point.
Added for emphasis.
Meant to show tolerance.
Used to elevate social consciousness.

Love.
Definition of Christ.
One who gave all, for all.

John 6:38
For I have come down from heaven not to do
my will but to do the will of him who sent me.

Love personified at Christmas.
Born in a manger.
Humbled before men.
Servant; yet King.
Crucified.
Glorified.

We light these two candles; side by side.

One. . . next to the other.
Light.
Dispelling the darkness.

The son of man.
The hope of all Nations.

Isaiah 9:6
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Prophesies foretold.
Promises fulfilled.

 Love and hope; gifts.

Quiet.
Humble.
Not self seeking or loud.

Love watches the needs of others. 

I Corinthians 13:4-7
 Love is patient, love is kind.
It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵
It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking,
it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
⁶ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
⁷ It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.