What is Hope? [Reflections for Advent Week 1]

The first Sunday of December (which was yesterday) marks the beginning of Advent. Advent is a season observed by many Christians as a time of preparation and expectant waiting for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. The term comes from the Latin word adventus, which means “coming”.

The keeping of an Advent wreath is a common practice in many homes and churches. My wife has set up an Advent wreath on our mantle, with four candles. For every Sunday of Advent, a candle is lit. Each candle represents...