The Vine: Dec. 2, 2024
“Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the Vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing”
This is a weekly reflection on the previous week’s sermon text. Each week there will be a devotional related to the scripture for the week, along with questions for reflection/discussion, as well as prayer. Feel free to make this a part of your individual spiritual growth throughout the week or utilize in small group settings (growth groups, Sunday school, etc.)
“There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
He told them this parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees. When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.
“Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.
“Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap. For it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.”
As we gather this Advent season, it’s impossible to ignore the weight of the world. Hurricanes, floods, fires, political divisions, and war seem to be heavy on our hearts. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and discouraged.
Yet, in this darkness, hope shines brightly. Jesus, in His wisdom, warns us that life will be challenging. He experienced hardship Himself and says we are to “stand up and raise our heads, because our redemption is drawing near.”
The Advent story, though filled with hope, is not a fairy tale. It’s the real-life of a story of a savior who came to earth, lived among us, suffered, and ultimately triumphed over death. As we wait for the end of this story, we find ourselves in a liminal space – a space of yet and not yet.
This liminal space can be uncomfortable and even painful. We may feel lost, anxious, or alone. Yet, it is in these moments that we really discover hope. Hope is not passive. It is a choice, a decision to trust in God’s promises, even when circumstances seem dark.
Hope is rooted in faith. It is the belief that God works in our lives, even when we can’t see it. It is the assurance that God is with us, always. Like the little league player who remained hopeful even when his team lost, we can trust in God, no matter what.
As we journey through this Advent season, let us embrace the hope that God offers. Let us hold on to His promises, even when they seem impossible. Let us be people of hope who shine a light in the darkness and offer comfort to those who are suffering.
May we find comfort in the words of the prophet Isaiah: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep shadow, a light has dawned.” This light is Jesus Christ, the hope of the world.”
PRAYER
God of Hope,
We are humbled by the weight of the world. The darkness seems to surround us, and fear often grips our hearts. Yet, we cling to the hope You offer, a beacon shining through the gloom. We pray for the world, that peace may prevail and suffering may cease. May Your love heal the broken and restore what is lost.
In the name of Jesus our hope,
Amen
Questions for Reflection:
While the passage warns of impending trials, it also offers a message of hope. How can we balance these two emotions as we navigate the uncertainties of life?
What specific actions can we take to cultivate hope and mitigate fear in our daily lives?
What are steps a church can take to provide hope for the world?
PREVIOUS WEEKS
To view all previous devotions go to https://fumc-rr.org/the-vine