Week 1: Embracing Advent: A Journey of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love

As the Christmas season approaches, the church enters a season of preparation and reflection called Advent. For pastors of small churches, Advent offers an opportunity to reflect deeply on the anticipation of the coming of Jesus Christ. The four themes of Advent—Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love—serve as a reminder of the promises fulfilled through Jesus’ birth and the hope we continue to await in His second coming. This two-week series will explore the significance of Advent, its history, traditions, and practical ways to celebrate these themes in your church, regardless of denomination or background.


Advent: History and Meaning

Advent, meaning “arrival” or “coming,” is the season observed in the Christian liturgical calendar that begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and culminates on Christmas Eve. The season traditionally marks a time of waiting, anticipation, and preparation for the arrival of Jesus. Historically, Advent was a time of fasting and penance in the early church, reflecting both the anticipation of Christ's first coming and the expectation of His second coming.

In modern traditions, Advent is a time for hopeful reflection on the promises of God fulfilled in Jesus Christ. The four Sundays of Advent focus on specific themes, each pointing to aspects of Christ's character and the reality of His work in the world. These themes—Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love—are not only relevant for the season but are also central to the gospel message.


Advent Theme - Hope

“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.’” – Luke 2:10-11 (NIV)

Hope is the first theme of Advent, reminding us of the expectation the world had for a Messiah to come and deliver God's people. In ancient Israel, the people lived in a time of darkness and despair under Roman occupation. Yet, even in the midst of suffering, there was a deep yearning for the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a Savior.

For small church pastors, the theme of Hope is incredibly relevant. You are called to lead people through times of uncertainty, whether they are facing personal struggles, global unrest, or the many challenges small churches face. Advent reminds us that hope is rooted not in our circumstances, but in the person of Jesus Christ. As we await the fulfillment of God’s ultimate promises, we can celebrate the hope that He has already come, and He will return.

Celebrating Hope:

  • Light the first Advent candle (the Hope candle) and invite your congregation to reflect on the hope that Christ brought into the world and continues to bring into our lives today.
  • Preach about the hope we find in Jesus, drawing on both Old and New Testament promises of salvation.


“Advent is the season of waiting, of hoping. It is the time to let our hearts be restless with the anticipation of Christ’s coming.” – Henri Nouwen


Advent Theme - Peace

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” – Luke 2:14 (NIV)

Peace, the second theme of Advent, is both a gift from Christ and a call to reconciliation. The birth of Jesus announced the arrival of peace on earth. Not only does He bring peace between humanity and God, but He also calls His followers to be agents of peace in a fractured world. In the midst of our busy, often chaotic lives, Advent invites us to pause and reflect on the peace that Christ offers.

For small church pastors, this theme can serve as a timely reminder of the importance of cultivating peace within your congregations and communities. It is easy for conflict and division to creep into church life, but the peace of Christ is meant to heal brokenness and foster unity.

Celebrating Peace:

  • Light the second Advent candle (the Peace candle), and pray for peace in your congregation, community, and the world.
  • Encourage a spirit of reconciliation and unity by preaching about the peace Christ offers, especially in relationships and in personal conflicts.


Peace is more than the absence of conflict; it’s the presence of wholeness and well-being, which Christ brings to those who trust in Him.




Merry Christmas from the Small Church Guys... We are your partner in ministry, empowering you to stay in the game and help you complete the work God began in you. We want to help you implement the vision God has given you.


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