Dear Church Family,
As we enter this holy season of Advent, we are reminded of the great anticipation and hope that fills our hearts as we prepare for the celebration of Christ’s birth. Advent is a season of waiting, reflection, and preparation—both for the coming of the Messiah and for the work God continues to do in our lives. It is a time for us to remember the promises of God and to renew our trust in His faithfulness.
This year, as we approach the new year with the uncertainty of a new president-elect, we may feel a sense of unrest. The future, in many ways, feels unknown, and it is easy to be overwhelmed by the challenges and changes ahead. Yet, in this season of Advent, we are called to focus on the hope that comes from Christ alone, and to seek His wisdom in all things.
In Proverbs 3:1–12, we find divine wisdom that speaks powerfully to our hearts in times of uncertainty. The Word of God calls us to place our trust fully in Him, acknowledging His sovereignty in every area of life. These verses are a beautiful reminder of how we are to live as followers of Christ, especially in seasons of change:
“My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones” (Proverbs 3:1-8, ESV).
In the midst of uncertainty, Advent invites us to trust in God with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding (v. 5). We often want to control our circumstances, to understand every detail of the future, but God calls us to surrender our fears and anxieties to Him. When we acknowledge God in all our ways, He promises to guide us and make our paths straight (v. 6).
This Advent, we are reminded that wisdom for the righteous brings peace, healing, and blessing. Proverbs 3:9–10 tells us to honor the Lord with our wealth and the first fruits of all we have, promising that our barns will be filled with plenty and our vats bursting with wine. As we seek God’s wisdom and live according to His ways, He blesses us with more than we could ever imagine. This is not just a promise for physical blessings, but for the spiritual peace and fulfillment that comes when we align our lives with His purposes.
Additionally, in verse 33, we read: “The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked, but He blesses the dwelling of the righteous.” During this season of Advent, as we prepare to welcome Christ anew, let us remember that God’s blessings rest on those who walk in His ways—those who live in wisdom, trust, and obedience.
As we look ahead to a year filled with both promise and uncertainty, let us hold fast to the hope we find in Christ. Advent is a season of waiting, but it is also a season of anticipation for the fulfillment of God’s promises. As we wait, we trust that He is working in our hearts, renewing our hope, and filling us with His peace.
This Christmas, let us embrace the wisdom that comes from trusting fully in God. As we prepare for Christ’s coming, may we acknowledge Him in all our ways, trusting that He will guide our paths. In a world that often feels uncertain, we can find hope and strength in the One who is faithful and true.
May the peace of Christ dwell richly in your hearts during this Advent season and throughout the coming year.
In Christ’s love and peace,
Bishop John L. Ghee
