Week of November 30th, 2025
Week of November 30th, 2025
Sunday, November 30, 2025
Readings: Isaiah 2:1–5; Psalm 122; Romans 13:11–14; Matthew 24:36–44
Reflection:
Isaiah envisions a world being turned upside down for the sake of peace, where nations and people abandon violence and strife. Romans calls us to wake from spiritual slumber, to live in the light of Christ’s coming, and to put aside the old ways that no longer serve God’s purposes. Matthew reminds us that the timing of God’s kingdom is unknown, urging vigilance and readiness.
In the midst of uncertainty and upheaval, hope is the anchor that steadies us. Advent’s holy disruption invites us to live awake, attentive to God’s breaking-in, and ready to participate in the renewal God is bringing. Hope isn’t passive—it is active, persistent, and practical in the way we live and love.
Question for Reflection:
Where is God inviting me to be alert, awake, and ready to act in the midst of uncertainty?
Prayer:
God of unexpected breakthroughs, give me eyes to see your kingdom at work and courage to respond. Keep my heart open to your renewing light, even when the world feels chaotic. Amen.
Today’s Intention:
Notice one place in your life or community where hope can guide your actions, and take a concrete step toward living as a Good News Person today.
Readings: Psalm 124; Genesis 8:1–19; Romans 6:1–11
Reflection:
Psalm 124 remembers God’s saving intervention—“if the Lord had not been on our side…” Genesis echoes that memory as Noah steps onto dry ground after chaos and destruction. New life begins after upheaval. Romans speaks of a deeper renewal: we rise with Christ into a new way of living, freed from what once held us captive.
Advent hope grows from this truth: God not only brings us through upheaval but transforms us on the other side. Hope calls us to walk forward, trusting that God breaks what is broken so that new life can flourish in us.
Question for Reflection:
Where might God be inviting me to step onto “new ground” and live differently because of hope?
Prayer:
God of deliverance, thank you for bringing me through what I could not escape alone. Help me walk in newness of life today, grounded in hope. Amen.
Today’s Intention:
Name one pattern, habit, or mindset you want to release—and take one step toward living differently.
Readings: Psalm 124; Genesis 9:1–17; Hebrews 11:32–40
Reflection:
Genesis gives us the rainbow covenant—a sign that God’s breaking-in will ultimately lead to restoration, not destruction. In Hebrews, the faithful endured trials, suffering, and uncertainty, yet remained anchored in hope. Psalm 124 continues reminding us that God is the one who carries us through danger and disruption.
Advent hope isn’t naïve. It faces hardship honestly while clinging to God’s faithfulness. Hope empowers us to endure, to trust the covenant-keeping God who brings renewal after upheaval.
Question for Reflection:
What covenant promise of God do I need to hold onto more tightly in this season?
Prayer:
Faithful God, steady my hope when I face challenges. Help me trust your promises and walk with courage. Amen.
Today’s Intention:
Carry a symbol of hope with you today—a word, verse, or small object—and let it remind you of God’s faithfulness.
Readings: Psalm 124; Isaiah 54:1–10; Matthew 24:23–35
Reflection:
Isaiah portrays God as the one who gathers, restores, and speaks compassion after seasons of deep upheaval. Jesus’ words in Matthew acknowledge the world’s turmoil yet assure us that God’s word endures when everything else shakes. Psalm 124 adds its recurring chorus: God is the one who rescues, sustains, and secures.
Hope in upheaval means trusting that God’s compassion and truth outlast every storm. Advent invites us to root ourselves not in predictions or fear, but in the steadfast love that holds firm.
Question for Reflection:
Where do I need to let God’s compassion steady me instead of fear or uncertainty?
Prayer:
God of everlasting love, quiet my fears and help me trust the word that never fails. Hold me in your peace today. Amen.
Today’s Intention:
Notice each moment when fear rises today. Pause, breathe, and consciously choose hope.
Readings: Psalm 72:1–7, 18–19; Isaiah 4:2–6; Acts 1:12–17, 21–26
Reflection:
Psalm 72 envisions a ruler who brings justice, peace, and flourishing—God’s shalom breaking into the world. Isaiah describes a renewed Jerusalem sheltered and transformed by God’s presence. In Acts, the disciples prepare for a new chapter, choosing a leader not out of fear but through prayer and trust.
Hope shapes how we lead, discern, and respond to uncertainty. Advent hope looks at a disrupted world and still chooses actions rooted in trust, peace, and God’s future.
Question for Reflection:
How might hope guide one decision I need to make today?
Prayer:
God of wisdom, lead me in choices that reflect your peace and justice. Help me trust your guidance even when the path isn’t clear. Amen.
Today’s Intention:
Before making a decision today—big or small—pause to ask: “What would hope choose?”
Readings: Psalm 72:1–7, 18–19; Isaiah 30:19–26; Acts 13:16–25
Reflection:
Isaiah promises a future where God hears, heals, teaches, and brings unimaginable light. Paul recounts God’s faithful work through generations, a reminder that God’s purposes move steadily through history. Psalm 72 celebrates the justice and peace of God’s reign.
Hope in upheaval trusts that God is still at work—even when the immediate landscape feels dim. Advent teaches us to look for the growing light, trusting that God is already shaping a future of wholeness.
Question for Reflection:
Where do I need to trust that God is healing, teaching, or leading me even if I can’t see results yet?
Prayer:
God who brings light, open my eyes to your quiet work in me and around me. Strengthen my hope as I follow you. Amen.
Today’s Intention:
Do one act today that reflects the light you trust God is bringing—an encouraging word, a kind gesture, a moment of patience.
Readings: Psalm 72:1–7, 18–19; Isaiah 40:1–11; John 1:19–28
Reflection:
Isaiah 40 begins with comfort—God breaking in not with judgment but with tenderness, preparation, and renewed strength. John the Baptist embodies this calling, preparing the way in a time of political tension and spiritual longing. Psalm 72 anchors us again in God’s vision of justice and flourishing.
Advent hope doesn’t wait passively. It prepares the way, clears the path, and listens for God’s arrival. Even when the world feels unstable, hope helps us stand steady and shine.
Question for Reflection:
How can I prepare room in my life for God’s renewing work today?
Prayer:
God of comfort and renewal, prepare my heart for your coming. Guide me to live with hope and openness in all I do. Amen.
Today’s Intention:
Clear space—physically or spiritually—to make room for God. Tidy a small area, simplify a task, or quiet your mind in prayer.