On this Fourth Sunday of Advent, we turn our hearts to the most profound theme of all—Love. Not the fragile, conditional, or fleeting love so often encountered in this world, but the divine love that flows from the very heart of God. Advent Love is the source from which Hope, Peace, and Joy all spring, for without the love of God revealed in Jesus Christ, we would remain lost, wandering in darkness, longing for a salvation we could never obtain on our own. In 1 John 4:9–10 we read, “God showed how much He loved us by sending His one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through Him. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.” These verses bring us to the very heart of Advent, where divine love becomes visible, tangible, and accessible to all.
The world often misunderstands love. People seek love in achievement, in affirmation, in possessions, or in the shifting approval of others. Because of this, they frequently end up wounded, disappointed, or disillusioned. Human love, while precious, is limited and imperfect. Hearts break, relationships strain, and trust can be lost. Yet into this fragile reality, God steps forward with a love so deep, so steadfast, and so sacrificial that it changes everything. The love of God is not a response to our goodness; it is the expression of His nature. He loves because He is love. His love is not diminished by our failures, not shaken by our doubts, and not withdrawn when we fall short. It remains constant, patient, and faithful.
Advent reminds us that the greatest expression of God’s love is the gift of His Son. Jesus did not come into the world because humanity finally became worthy; He came because we were utterly unable to save ourselves. In the innocence of a Child laid in a manger, we behold the infinite love of God clothed in humility. In Christ’s teachings, we hear love speaking truth. In His miracles, we see love lifting burdens. In His compassion, we watch love draw near to the brokenhearted. And in His sacrifice on the cross, we witness love poured out to redeem us forever. Advent Love is not sentimental—it is strong, enduring, and victorious.
As we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Advent calls us to allow this divine love to take root in our hearts. God’s love transforms us from within. It softens hardened attitudes, heals old wounds, and reshapes how we see others. When we truly understand the depth of God’s love for us, we cannot help but reflect that love in our daily lives. Love becomes the lens through which we respond to conflict, the motivation behind our acts of kindness, and the strength that enables us to forgive. Advent invites us to let God’s love flow through us—to our families, our churches, our communities, and even to those who have wronged us. When divine love governs our actions, the world sees Christ in us.
This holy season also calls us to embody Christlike love in practical ways. There are individuals this time of year who carry silent struggles—those grieving losses, those without family, those who do not know how they will afford necessities, and those whose hearts are burdened with loneliness. A simple expression of love—a visit, a call, a meal, a prayer—may be the very touch that brings hope into someone’s life. And as this ministry has done faithfully, let us continue to bless our communities by supporting local food pantries. When we give so that others may eat, we live out the love of Christ in tangible form. As Jesus reminds us in Matthew 25:45 (NLT), what we do for the least among us, we do for Him.
As we light the fourth candle of Advent, let its flame remind us that love came down from heaven in the person of Jesus Christ. His love surrounds us, upholds us, and invites us into a life of compassion and service. May this love fill your heart, guide your steps, and shine through your life as a testimony to the world.
So, I say to you, “May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.”
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