This December, leading up to Christmas, we want to help you pause to find hope, love, joy and peace even amidst all the pressures and expectations of the holiday.
Around this busy time of year, we may find ourselves studying for exams, researching gift ideas and making travel plans to be near our loved ones on Christmas Day. We sometimes get beaten down by the stress that comes with all our holiday preparations, and forget that Christmas is all about Christ’s birth and the Father’s redemption plan for all of humankind.
Over the next four weeks, we’ll be posting weekly an inspirational video clip, highlighting our own Providence people, to help unfold the wonder and joy of Christmas to everyone this year!
This first Advent week is special because it’s the beginning of a new season. It is a time when we get ready, preparing ourselves for the coming of the Christ Child. “For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6 NIV).
After long years of waiting and hoping, the prophets, inspired by God, kept reminding the people to look forward to the coming of Messiah, the Son of God, who was to redeem the people from their sins.
And before Jesus left this earth to return to His home in heaven, He told us we should watch and wait (HOPE) for His return.
This first week in Advent, December 1 to 7, our theme is hope. Take a look at Sunday Olukoju, Seminary Director of Distance Education, as he encourages us to make room for Jesus in our hearts and homes during this Christmas season.
COMING SOON:
Advent Week 2: LOVE | Rebecca Dielschneider, University College | Assistant Professor of Biology
Advent Week 3: JOY | Lindsey Post, Staff | Executive Assistant for External Relations
Advent Week 4: PEACE | David Johnson, President | Providence University College & Theological Seminary
