Bishops' Advent Message 2024
Council of Bishops Graphic
“But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for see, I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.” – Luke 2:10-11
As we journey through the Holy Season of Advent toward the glorious celebration of Christmas, we are reminded that this is no ordinary journey. It is one of anticipation and longing—a time of active waiting that is anchored in faith and expectation of God’s movement among us. It is a time to be still, to watch with a sense of wonder, to listen with a fervent heart, and to voice our deepest longings while remaining ever mindful of how God’s love, peace, hope, and joy are being revealed among us—in unexpected circumstances, in unexpected places, and yes, through unexpected people. The Advent journey opens our hearts and minds to a deeper awareness of God’s activity in our lives and in the world.
Bishop Tracy Malone
Council of Bishops Photo
Advent teaches us to look for God’s presence not only in the beautiful moments but also in the broken and barren places. God comes toward us in the ordinariness of our lives, meeting us where we are—bringing light into our darkness, healing into our woundedness and hope into our despair. God comes toward us to liberate the oppressed, to proclaim good news to the poor and to bring justice to the marginalized. We can trust in the truth that God is always working for good, redeeming every moment and circumstance and reassuring us that nothing is ever wasted. The most extraordinary revelation of God’s love and light is in the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ—the LIGHT and HOPE of the world. Through Christ, we can know unconditional love, experience a deep peace, rejoice in hope, and discover unspeakable joy.
God’s love and light continue to be made visible through us, each and every day, as we embody the love and light of Christ. Every act of kindness, every word of encouragement, every prayer lifted, every blessing shared, every expression of love, and every act of compassion and justice done in Jesus’ name brings more of God’s light, love, hope, and peace into the world.
This season of waiting and longing reminds us that God is always drawing near—to love us, to bless us, and to surprise us. Whatever we are waiting for, praying for and longing for, we can trust in God’s faithfulness to meet our needs and fulfill His promises. We can pray in faith, asking God to move again and again, to surprise us, and to birth something new that will bring healing, hope and transformation.
May we open our hearts to the coming of Christ, not only in this season but in every moment of our lives. And may the love, peace, hope and joy of Jesus Christ be on full display through our witness and work in our communities and throughout the world so that “every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all people will see it together.” (Isaiah 40:4-5). May it be so! Amen!
Blessed Advent and Merry Christmas,
Bishop Tracy S. Malone
President - Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church