As we enter the Advent season, a prevailing feeling in our surroundings and within ourselves is weariness. Our world is confronted by a multitude of challenges and crises, including conflicts in places like Ukraine and Israel, economic inequalities, political divisions, and the burden of personal hardships. Many are feeling exhausted and drained due to the relentless onslaught of an unsettled world that is still searching for a new sense of normalcy.

However, Advent and the approaching Christmas season convey a powerful message: amidst this weariness, we can find hope. This hope stems from the arrival of Jesus 2,000 years ago and the anticipation of his return. As Christmas draws near, we will explore the stories of the individuals linked to the birth of Christ and discover how they, too, experienced weariness in their unique ways. They grappled with uncertainty, wondering if their challenges would ultimately overwhelm them. Yet, these individuals were told by the angels to not be afraid.

Join us this Advent season as we look at the birth of Christ through the lives of Zechariah and Elizabeth, Mary, Joseph, and the Shepherds to see how God speaks into their weariness as well as ours. Hope has arrived.