Advent Community Guide - Week 1
Week 1: Waiting for Hope
Start with Prayer
Introduction
Week 1 of Advent is all about Hope. Traditionally, the prayers, readings, and themes relate to the Hebrew prophets who anticipated the Messiah’s coming. All of us are waiting for something: a situation to pan out, a relationship to be restored, or an opportunity to unfold. The goal of Week 1 is to place ourselves in the place of Israel, who waited expectantly for generations for the coming of Jesus. We, like Israel, must learn to wait with hope.
Candle Lighting
If you have it, have someone light the first candle of Advent. This first flame represents the light of hope, and reminds us to keep our hope alive during this season.
Have two people each read one of the Scriptures:
“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint." Isaiah 40v31
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." Romans 15v13
Discussion
Share a time you had to wait for something and how it tested or grew your faith.
How does having the hope of Jesus shape the way we wait?
Practice
Take five minutes for quiet solitude. Write down one area where you feel stuck or unsure. Pray over what you’ve written, asking God for renewed hope as you wait.
Reflection Questions
What does it mean to wait with hope instead of waiting for hope?
In what areas of life are you longing for resolution or fulfillment? If wiling, feel free to share what you wrote during the Practice portion.
Close with Final Prayer
“O God of hope, who has given us your Son as our sure foundation, teach us to trust your promises in times of waiting. Fill our hearts with hope through the power of your Holy Spirit, that we may endure with faith. Amen.” (Adapted from the Book of Common Prayer)
Keep the Candles lit until everyone leaves
