“But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy for all the people: To you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.”
Luke 2:10-11

As we journey through the holy season of Advent toward the glorious celebration of Christmas, we are reminded that this is no ordinary journey. It is a time of anticipation and longing – a time of active waiting anchored in faith and expectation of God’s work among us. It is a time to be still, to watch with a sense of wonder, to listen with a fervent heart, and to express our deepest longings, while always being aware of how God’s love, peace, hope, and joy are revealed among us—in unexpected ways circumstances, in unexpected places and yes, by unexpected people. The Advent journey opens our hearts and minds to a deeper awareness of God’s work in our lives and in the world.

Advent teaches us to seek God’s presence not only in the beautiful moments, but also in the broken and barren places. God comes to meet us in the everydayness of our lives and meets us where we are – bringing light to our darkness, healing our wounds and hope to our despair. God comes to us to liberate the oppressed, proclaim good news to the poor, and bring justice to the marginalized. We can trust in the truth that God is always working for good, redeeming every moment and every situation, and assuring us that nothing is ever wasted. The most extraordinary revelation of God’s love and light is the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ – the LIGHT and HOPE of the world. Through Christ we can experience unconditional love, experience deep peace, rejoice in hope, and discover joy unspeakable.

God’s love and light continue to be seen through us every day as we embody the love and light of Christ. Every act of kindness, every word of encouragement, every prayer raised, every blessing shared, every expression of love, and every act of compassion and justice done in the name of Jesus brings in more of God’s light, love, hope, and peace the world .

This time of waiting and longing reminds us that God is always drawing closer – to love us, bless us and surprise us. Whatever we expect, whatever we pray for, or long for, we can trust God to meet our needs and fulfill His promises. We can pray in faith and ask God to keep moving, surprising us, and bringing forth something new that brings healing, hope, and transformation.

May we open our hearts to the coming of Christ, not only at this time but in every moment of our lives. And may the love, peace, hope and joy of Jesus Christ be fully expressed through our witness and work in our communities and around the world, so that “every valley may be exalted, every mountain and hill made low; The rough ground should become level, the rugged places become plain. And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all men shall see it together” (Isaiah 40:4-5). May it be so! Amen!

Blessed Advent and Merry Christmas,

Bishop Tracy S. Malone
President – ​​Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church

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