AECI Advent 2025 Reflection: 'Plunge into Trust; Awaken in Hope' (Week Four)

Week Four: Hope

'Awaken in a Hope

Striding with the courage to define

All you are in Christ.

To break thus

Into a Hope without trepidation

Is to move swift in strengthening the mind,

Along the path of resolve.

Here, gaze on the widest vision of belonging

At the foot of Splendour’s heights

Your Star breaches the night,

Presence. Thanks. Peace to integrate.

Today,

Be no more of this raging earth

You have everything one needs to rejuvenate.'

On the fourth and final Sunday of this season of Advent, we consider the vision of 'the angel of the Lord' to Joseph in the Gospel of Matthew.

It is a message of buoyant hope for both the figure of Joseph , fearful of social disapproval at the time, and for his betrothed Mary, who has the promise of security for herself and for her child to be.

Yet the message holds a broad 'vision of belonging' too. The Son will 'save his people' in line with the earlier prophecies in Scripture. The path is set out clearly. The angel has affirmed a lasting covenant of renewal and fulfilment .

As we move from the preparation of Advent towards the coming of the Saviour and this joyful 'Christmastide', may we know a serenity and a presence that integrates our lives, leaving a trail of hope and resolve as the new year beckons.