Nov 30, 2025

Pastor Sarah Henry

Series Introduction

The season of Advent calls us to see hope amidst adversity. Darkness can symbolize life's unexpected hardships. Our hope in Christ ignites resilience in times of darkness. 

Trouble is on the way. But God will be there. 

Hope is not easy.  Hope is a choice. Hope is a reminder of the things that God has already done and will do. 

Hope is something we don’t do alone. We do it together. 

God's Got Something to Say (Micah 1 and 5)

God called the prophet Micah to deliver a message of judgment against the corrupt leaders of Judah. These leaders, who were supposed to serve the people, were abusing their power, exploiting the poor, and deceiving the vulnerable. 

God is not silent in the face of injustice and that God’s justice will prevail.

Micah’s prophecy, though foretelling the Assyrian invasion, offers hope by emphasizing God’s covenant love and ultimate purpose of salvation and redemption. The prophecy also foretells the coming of a ruler from Bethlehem, fulfilled by Jesus, who breaks down barriers and brings peace. This hope, rooted in God’s past actions and presence, encourages believers to face uncertainty with faith, knowing God is with us.

Micah's prophecy offers hope, assuring that current troubles are not the end, as God’s justice, love, and salvation through Jesus Christ promise a brighter future. Church, cling to hope and trust in God's presence, love, and ongoing work in our lives.  

Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you;
therefore he will rise up to show mercy to you.
For the Lord is a God of justice;
blessed are all those who wait for him (Isa 30:18).

For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us (Eph 2:14).

Reflection

1. What seasons of darkness have you grown through, or are currently going through?

2. How has God shown up for you in the past? 

3. How might God's past mercies give you hope for the future?