Celebrate Recovery Weekly Encouragement 12-6-23

First week of Advent
 Hope
Jeremiah 33:14 (NIV)
“‘The days are coming,’ declares the LORD, ‘when I will fulfill the good promise I made to the people of Israel and Judah."

As we enter into the Christmas season, we light the first candle of our Advent wreath. This candle, often called the "Prophet's Candle," symbolizes Hope. It reminds us of the hope we have in Christ, and think about the anticipation of the coming of a Messiah throughout the Old Testament.

The message of Advent is twofold. Firstly, it is a call to readiness and vigilance in preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth. And secondly, it is a call to prepare our hearts for Christ's second coming.

In the midst of the joy, the gifts, and the family gatherings this season, may we not forget the true reason for our celebration. As we light this first candle of Advent, let it ignite a flame of hope in our hearts — hope in the fulfillment of God's promises, in His unchanging character, and in the salvation offered through Jesus Christ, whose birth we are preparing to celebrate.

Dear Lord, as we light this first candle of Advent, fill our hearts with hope. Help us to stay focused on you during this season. Prepare our hearts and remove anything that is in the way of celebrating your birth in joy and happiness. Amen.


Brian Willems CADC1
Ministry Leader
Celebrate Recovery
New Life Community Dinuba

We’re going to talk about recycling this week — recycling your pain by allowing God’s fire and light to shine on it, to melt down your old hurts, habits, and hang-ups so they can be used again in a positive way.