Advent is a time of anticipation, reflection, and preparation—a season where we remind ourselves of the HOPE that came into the world through Jesus.
As I think about hope, I can’t help but reflect on the story of Mary and Joseph. They were two ordinary people, living ordinary lives, until God interrupted their plans in the most unexpected way. Can you imagine what that must have felt like? To have your world turned upside down and to be called into something so much bigger than yourself?
When I think about Mary, I see a young woman, probably no older than some of the students in our youth group. Her life was planned out—she was engaged, probably dreaming of what her future with Joseph would look like. Then, out of nowhere, the angel Gabriel appears with this message: “You are going to have a child. But not just any child. You’re going to carry the Son of God.” Can you imagine the weight of that moment? Her response amazes me every time: “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.”
And then there’s Joseph. I’ve always admired Joseph. He doesn’t get a lot of lines in the Bible, but his actions speak volumes. Imagine how hurt, confused, and even betrayed he must have felt when he found out Mary was pregnant. He had every reason to walk away quietly, but then God intervened. An angel came to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, don’t be afraid. This is part of My plan.” And what does Joseph do? He wakes up, and he obeys.
Here’s what I love about Mary and Joseph: their faith and obedience weren’t flashy, but they were faithful. They trusted God, even when it didn’t make sense. They leaned into hope, even when the circumstances were overwhelming.
This story hits home for me because, like many of you, I’ve had moments where life didn’t go as planned. Maybe you’re there right now—facing unexpected news, a detour you didn’t see coming, or a burden you feel unequipped to carry. The story of Mary and Joseph reminds us that hope doesn’t come from perfect circumstances. It comes from trusting that God’s plans are always better than our own.
So, let me ask you:
• Where in your life is God asking you to trust Him more?
• What unexpected situation might He be using to show you His faithfulness?
This Advent season, I want to challenge us all to embrace the unexpected. Like Mary, let’s say, “I am the Lord’s servant.” Like Joseph, let’s wake up and obey, even when it’s hard.
Friends, hope is not passive. It’s an active decision to trust that God is working, even when we can’t see it. And here’s the good news: the same God who was faithful to Mary and Joseph is faithful to you and me.
As we walk through Advent together, let’s hold on to this truth: hope is here, and His name is Jesus.
Blessings,
Pastor John Joiner
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