A Year of Struggles and Hope

Ask nearly anyone, and they’ll likely agree that 2025 has been quite a challenging year. We’ve witnessed global conflicts, instances of gun violence in schools, and a worrying rise in political unrest. Additionally, there’s been a cost of living crisis, the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, and natural disasters that have impacted countless lives. It’s been a lot.

For many, this year has felt like one challenge after another. In such circumstances, it’s easy to focus on the darker aspects of life and feel disheartened.

The concept of hope, seemingly simple, carries immense weight, especially on this first Sunday of Advent. The initial candle in an Advent wreath symbolizes “hope,” but it goes by other names, too—like the “Prophet’s Candle.”

Finding Peace in Advent Practices

This candle, named for the Old Testament prophets who awaited the Messiah, embodies a deep, enduring hope that persists even amidst struggles. It’s a hope that promises fulfillment. This is what we commemorate today—it’s not merely a tradition, but a reminder that light prevails over darkness.

Interestingly, a study in MIT Technology Review revealed that the human eye can detect a candle’s flame from more than 2.7 miles away. A small flame can cut through significant darkness. And paradoxically, the darker it gets, the more brilliant that light appears.

Hope functions similarly; it’s a light stronger than the dark forces of evil. This is why the apostle John describes light and darkness in his Gospel: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

Building Community through Food Traditions

I certainly don’t want to downplay the hardships we’ve faced this year. However, it’s equally important to acknowledge that God has been present in remarkable ways. Each instance of divine involvement reassures us that our hope is grounded, and eventually, all wrongs will be righted.

But we shouldn’t adopt a passive stance, merely waiting for divine intervention. Instead, God invites us to actively participate in creating His Kingdom here on Earth. We’re encouraged to show hope through our actions—caring for our neighbors, providing for the hungry, and supporting the sick.

In October, 22 graduates celebrated their achievements through the CityServe Educational Collaborative in Kern County, California. This initiative offers life coaching and job training to individuals overcoming disabilities or challenging past experiences. One graduate recited a poem during the ceremony, which included a line that resonates deeply right now:

“You are vessels of hope.”

These words emphasize that hope is tangible and must be expressed through our actions. Wherever we go, we meet people living out this hope.

At the Elevate Apartments in Bakersfield, California, for instance, individuals experiencing homelessness find affordable housing that significantly improves their chances for success across all aspects of life.

This is why various individuals, organizations, and churches have come together to create the Ein Habesor Sports Complex in Israel. This facility is designed to provide a safe space for recreation and healing for those affected by the tragic events of October 7th.

These examples illustrate the transformative power of hope. The anticipation of a savior in an imperfect world is not just a tale told during the holiday season—it’s a reality we witness day to day as we strive to mend what’s broken.

We partake in this work not through our own means but as reflections of the light of Jesus Christ, who embodies hope for humanity. By God’s grace, we shine in the darkness, resist evil, and serve our neighbors’ well-being. This holy calling extends beyond just the Advent season; it is a daily commitment we are called to uphold.