Below shared by Wallace:
Emily Dickinson called hope “the thing with feathers.” Hope, said the poet, is like a tiny bird that sings despite the storm. In Romans 8, Paul described the groaning of creation. It is not a cry of despair but an expression of longing for transformation. This painful groaning is not just evidence that the world is broken, it is a promise of the liberation that is to come. Jesus told His disciples that while others faint with terror and grow apprehensive about “what is coming on the world,” their response should be different. In Christ, we have hope (Luke 21:26–28).
Troubles remind us to lean into the hope of Christ’s return. Like creation, we “groan,” eagerly awaiting the transformation He will bring (v. 23). The fact that the world seems to be falling apart does not erode our hope. Even when our circumstances appear dismal, we keep going because “hope that is seen is no hope at all” (v. 24). We should not expect life to be any different this side of the new creation. Likewise, we should not be surprised when we sometimes struggle with the collateral damage of sin in ourselves even after we have placed our faith in Christ. The final stage of our salvation experience will be “the redemption of our bodies” (v. 23).
Advent speaks of arrival, but until Christ comes again, we are in a season of waiting. This should not make us sad because waiting is a sign of hope. The apostle observes in verse 24: “Who hopes for what they already have?” Even though waiting is not comfortable, it is a manner of hope. Only those who hope to receive something are willing to wait. Hope warrants patience. The certainty of the Lord’s promise gives wings to our hope.
Is there something you can do to “lean into” hope today? Should you sing a song, talk to a friend, or read a verse of Scripture?
Father, give us better understanding of the connection between waiting and hope in today’s reading. Teach us to wait patiently for Christ’s return and to lean into this hope. May our hope truly have wings!
"Hope is a posture of faith that faces forward." - shared by Wallace
Restored by His Grace See's Christmas Campaign
Dear Friends,
Restored by His Grace needs your sweet support! We're selling yummy See's Candies for our latest fundraiser.
If you prefer to support us by sending a cash donation, you can do so through Zelle. If your preference is check,
please send it to our mailing address: Restored by His Grace 2222 Foothill Blvd. Suite E258 La Canada Ca 91011.
Cash and check donations are tax deductible.
As usual, we are so grateful for your continued support. Our See's Candy Fundraiser ends December 6th at 5:00pm.
{ https://www.yumraising.com/sec...}Visit our shop to pick and choose your favorites and buy your candy online. It's that easy!
Happy shopping, and thanks for your support!
You can Also Contact Charisse to support Restored By His Grace. https://hisgracerestores.org
(Kenan's Link below)
Here is the website stayfresh.co (candles)
Here is a 20% OFF code, specifically for the Bell Family.Promo Code: BELLFAM100% all-natural soy wax candles hand poured into 100% recycled glass. 8 total scents available in 2 sizes: 10 oz. and 4.4 ozPlease share the link with any candle lovers in your extended families also.Thanks! Kenan
Kenan - Stay Fresh Radio 01 (music)
Macellina & Wayne Odd's Registry Link for King Lynnox
Baby Registry: https://www.amazon.com/baby-reg/macellina-amonoo-wayne-odd-february-2025-sacramento/2RE7PZYUC259N
https://www.punkkidsfilm.com/ (Available on Amazon Prime starring Wynton Odd)
Just occasionally something special happens and you're invited. Please join me and all my Sagittarius friends for my 70th Birthday Celebration with a special performance by Grammy award winning artist Howard Hewett. On Saturday, December 21st for dinner, dancing and a show. Special hotel room rates available. Please view QR code or link below!
Ticket / Hotel Info: Phillipbellannualparty.eventbrite.com
Info: 510 708-0133
(Click here) for Macellina's Book
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