The first and second Sundays of Advent have a common theme for me: HOPE. (It’s actually a biblical word, not a campaign slogan. Who knew?)

The epistle for this Sunday is Romans 15:4-13.

“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have HOPE.” (v. 4)

That verse alone would preach all day long. It probably will.

The need of my life is to have endurance. The walk of faith has this component of endurance. I find this true as I see serious needs around me. Several people I am praying for need healing from cancer and other very serious ailments. It is a time to endure in prayer. It is a time to NOT give up.

Scriptures are given to teach me to endure. Endure in prayer. Don’t stop asking. Don’t stop knocking. Stay alert and pray. God is our healer and my friends and family need healing in their lives. Lord, teach me to endure.