In a season often painted with twinkling lights and cheerful carols, there's a profound truth we often miss: "Advent begins in darkness." Drawing from Fleming Rutledge's powerful insight, today's message explores the deeper, often overlooked dimension of the Advent season - its acknowledgment of our world's brokenness and our longing for Christ's return.

This raw and honest reflection considers:

• Why Advent isn't just about celebrating Christ's first coming, but anticipating His return
• How the season speaks to those experiencing loneliness and loss during the holidays
• The tension between holiday cheer and life's real struggles
• Finding hope in both remembrance and anticipation

For anyone feeling out of step with the forced festivity of the season, this message offers a meaningful perspective on how Advent embraces both our pain and our hope, our celebrations and our longings.