Songs of Hope

Field Guide for the second week of Advent

December 2, 2022 


As we light this second advent candle, we remember the words of the prophet Isaiah:


"A shoot will grow up from the stump of Jesse; a branch will sprout up from the roots.

The Lord’s spirit will rest upon them, a spirit of wisdom and understanding, a spirit of planning and strength, a spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord.

Come Lord Jesus kindle in our hearts your songs of hope. Amen."


Isaiah 11:1-10

Romans 15:4-7

Matthew 3:1-3


“The point of all scripture is hope.” (*Romans 15) Christ’s kindom brings hope by working for equity, peace and justice.


This week we hear the song of John the Baptist– this uncontainable, wild, locust, and honey man who would not can it! He was going to prepare the way of the Lord. He had a story of hope to tell about what was to come and he would not cease sharing it.