For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the circumcised on behalf of the truth of God in order that he might confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, 9 and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy.

Romans 15:8-9 NRSV

The arc of God’s work is always bent toward creation in which humanity stands at the epicenter. What and who God creates is never forgotten. Our hope then is not in our goodness but God’s faithfulness. It is not about being good but God being loving.

That is the hope of Advent. The One who holds the keys of this life always moves toward us. We know this through the ultimate witness who we call Jesus. Jesus was sent to serve not be served. Jesus came to give not receive. And Jesus is the clearest and best picture of what it looks like for God to be faithful.

May this Advent season begin with a deep breath of thanksgiving. For our hope is not about our performance of faithfullness but God’s.