God does not love us because of our circumstances, but God loves us in spite of our circumstances.

This season, let us give thanks for the birth of Jesus, the human embodiment of God’s justice. Let us rejoice in the knowledge that God is turning the world around.

Agape describes Jesus’ love for us: love so vast that he gave everything so we could have life and life abundant.

Even when we have lost our way, God has open arms for us to run back to and makes us feel covered in grace and abundant love.

As we prepare for Advent, let us be set aflame by Malachi’s passion for justice so it burns away all lazy excuses.

While the dominant paradigm tries to numb us, our faith calls us to pray for strength and act with courage. We are called to follow a radically different way; the way of Jesus.

As we wait for the proclamation of righteousness this advent season, may we not forget to grow our love for each other, ourselves, and for all people.

This advent, as we wait for the celebration of the LORD our Righteous Savior to be born, what challenge will you take part in to join in Jesus’ sprout of new life in pursuing justice for this land and safety for your neighbor?