First Sunday in AdventThe season of advent opens with hope. Not fear but hope that God is coming to save His people. Hope is not passive optimism; but invites total conversion, a new way of thinking, seeing, and living the life of grace. Spiritual sleep, on the other hand, is associated with set routines void of one's heart being fully engaged, faith void of intrinsically motivated desire for God, and habits that do not lift us toward God. Thus, a form of shallowness longing begins to develop in the mind, heart, and soul.Advent powerfully reminds all of humanity that change is possible and grace is near because Jesus Christ is close. Jesus desires a relationship with us as we prayerfully sing O Come O Come Emmanuel. Let us put aside works of darkness and put on the armor of light, Our Lord Jesus Christ.Scripture Readings for November 30, 2025Isaiah