As we enter this season, I think back to my first experiences in observing Advent as I sat with my mom and brother at Christ Church in Rugby, Tn. I didn’t really understand what each candle represented and all the theology behind it. What I did know was that I had a palpable sense of anticipation when that first candle was lit every year. I knew that meant that we were beginning that journey that would finally lead to a Christmas Eve service, Christmas morning and, yes, presents. Let’s be honest, as a child, that is what I was hoping for. That sense of Advent anticipation looks different for me today. It is more centered around Jesus’ birth, hope for the future, and of Him coming again.

When I think about how that sense of hope is translated in our church/school partnerships, I think of you, our coordinators. Every time you meet with students as a mentor or lunch buddy, you give them hope that they are being seen and known. Each lesson or skill that you help them with gives them hope for higher achievement and a sense of accomplishment. Every time you show up at a school concert, a ball game, or a field day, you are giving them the hope of having a connection with others who care for them. In all these ways and so many others you are sharing with them the hope of Jesus. 

Romans 15:13 ~ May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope

Written by Jenny Runyon, United4Hope Program Manager