The Upper Room

Hope and Freedom ________ Today’s Reflection THE ADVENT MESSAGE predicts a future of freedom and hope and also speaks to those of us who have food, education, and secure employment, revealing our need for release from the stranglehold of a lifestyle in which our possessions control us. It speaks deliverance to those in poverty as well. Jesus lives among us to bring the hope of freedom to everyone who seeks deliverance from oppression and bondage, to those who have much and those who have nothing. The Advent hymn “Good Christian Friends, Rejoice” states, “Jesus Christ was born for this!” This Christmas will not be the same for anyone who has lost a lifelong companion: “Jesus Christ was born for this!” This Christmas will not be the same for anyone who has lost a lifelong companion: “Jesus Christ was born for this!” who is keeping a faithful vigil at the bedside of a loved one for whom the future appears dark and uncertain: “Jesus Christ was born for this!” who is experiencing the deterioration of a relationship within a family or marriage: “Jesus Christ was born for this!” who is burdened by the pain and hurt of abusiveness or abandonment: “Jesus Christ was born for this!” The message of Advent is that, whatever our circumstance in life, Jesus Christ was born to be with us wherever we are. – John A. Stroman Singing Mary’s Song