You do not yet know how hope is taking root under the surface of today’s sorrows. You do not yet see how you are being nourished to grow strong. Bless the darkness, even if for a moment. - K.J. Ramsey

“yakhal” (יָחַל): to wait; to be patient, to hope

There is something about being human that wants to anticipate a future that is better than the present. We have all had this feeling in one context or another, and this is called hope. Christmas can be a roller coaster of hope “I hope it is better than last year, I hope everyone can make it, I hope I survive the season, I hope....” but often our idea of hope is different than biblical hope. Advent candles are being lit all over the world on the first Sunday of Advent to remind us to hold fast to hope in God, and this hope is different than simply being optimistic.