The first candle of Advent, often called the "Hope Candle," symbolizes the hope we have in God's promises and His ultimate plan for salvation through Jesus Christ. This light shines as a beacon of hope in a world longing for redemption and restoration.

In Psalms 1–10, we see the psalmists repeatedly turning to God as their source of hope and strength amid trials. David cries out to God for deliverance, trusting in His justice and faithfulness:

O Lord, I give my life to you. I trust in you, my God! Psalm 25:1–2 (NLT)

This trust is rooted in the character of God—His goodness, mercy, and unfailing love. The psalms remind us that even in seasons of waiting or despair, we can place our hope in the One who reigns with righteousness.

Similarly, the Gospel of Luke brings this hope to life in the story of Mary. In Luke 1, we read of the angel Gabriel's announcement to Mary that she would bear the Messiah. Despite the uncertainty and challenges ahead, Mary responds with faith:

I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true. Luke 1:38 (NLT)

Her response reminds us that hope is not just wishful thinking—it is confident trust in God’s promises.

The Hope Candle invites us to remember that, like Mary and the psalmists, we can trust in God's faithfulness.

God’s light shines through the darkness, pointing us toward the fulfillment of His promises in Jesus Christ.

This Advent, may we fix our eyes on Jesus, as the hope of the world!