Why wait till New Year’s Day for your new beginning? Advent is the beginning of the Christian Year. New beginnings, fresh start, clean slate—this is what the coming of Jesus to the world means.  And the coming of Jesus to the world is about the coming of Jesus to the human heart, which brings new beginnings, fresh start, clean slate.

I would love for you to join me over the next few weeks, as anticipation and hope grow. I wrote an easy to follow guide to Advent traditions in the home. Won’t you join me and my family? Scroll down to get it….

The first week of of Advent is all about HOPE. Jesus is the fulfillment of all the prophecies, the Hope that burned in the hearts of the faithful. He brought a new beginning.

The days are surely coming, says the LORD, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah.

In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land.

In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is the name by which it will be called: “The LORD is our righteousness.” (Jer 33:14-16).

Jesus is our Hope too. He is the Righteous Branch. He brings new justice, but also new mercy. He grows us in righteousness and makes our relationship with God right.

If our Hope of starting over lies with Him, we will never be disappointed. He is faithful and true. He shows up and stays to finish the work He starts in us. Like Our Heavenly Father, He never leaves:

• Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you (Deut 31:6, ESV).
• I am with you always, even unto the end of the world (Matt 28:20b, KJV).

I am thankful to know that Jesus stays to brings up to the place we are supposed to go and make us into who were were made to bearen’t you? Doesn’t that give you HOPE? 🙂

Over the next few weeks, as we journey through Advent, we will be joined by a friend of mine—Amy Young is one of those people that you feel immediately comfortable with when you meet her. I think that is true because she is comfortable with herself. I know you will enjoy getting to know her!

Also, I wrote a little eBook to help families or singles celebrate Advent traditions at home. It’s free! Get it here. 🙂