Advent Journey
Week 4: Love in Loneliness – Discovering Hope in God’s Word
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son.” John 3:16
Hello everyone! I’m so glad to share this Christmas devotional with you. I’m grateful to the CBS leadership for this opportunity.
This week, we’re reflecting on the theme of Love in Loneliness. When we look around, we see that many people feel isolated and alone. Mary, the mother of Jesus, experienced similar emotions when she received the life-changing message from the angel as we see in Luke 1.
After hearing that she would be the mother of the Saviour, Mary asked, “How will this be?” She was young, unmarried, and faced uncertainty. But the angel reassured her: “The Holy Spirit will overshadow you,” and promised that no word from God would ever fail.
Mary chose to trust God’s Word. She responded, “May your word to me be fulfilled.” In her lonely moments, she found strength in God’s love and promises.
In my chaplaincy work at Ontario Shores, I often meet individuals struggling with mental health challenges who feel isolated. When I share God’s Word with them, it brings comfort and hope, even if not everyone is ready to accept it. The Word has a way of shining light into lonely hearts.
Recently, I visited a girls’ home in India that shelters young girls, many of whom have faced domestic abuse. These children, ages 8 to 16, have been abandoned, sometimes even by their families. Yet, in that home, they find love and, more importantly, hope through God’s Word.
As we approach Christmas, let us hold tightly to God’s love. 1 Corinthians 13 reminds us of the power of love, and John 3:16 declares: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son.” That’s why we celebrate this season.
In your own lonely moments, remember to trust God’s Word as Mary did. May His promises be fulfilled in your life. God bless you!
Rev. Sam Vijayasenan
Missions & Prayer Pastor,
Malvern Christian Assembly
Prayer
Loving Father, in moments of loneliness, help me to rest in Your constant love. Teach me to trust in Your promises, just as Mary did, even when I feel uncertain or alone. Fill my heart with the peace and hope that only You can give and help me share Your love with others this Advent season.
Reflection
During loneliness, God’s love draws near, just as it did for Mary. Reflect on the moments when you feel isolated and how you can invite God’s love to fill those spaces. Let His Word be a light that leads you through loneliness, offering you hope and strength in His presence.
Prayer:
Loving Father, in moments of loneliness, help me to rest in Your constant love. Teach me to trust in Your promises, just as Mary did, even when I feel uncertain or alone. Fill my heart with the peace and hope that only You can give and help me share Your love with others this Advent season.
Reflection:
During loneliness, God’s love draws near, just as it did for Mary. Reflect on the moments when you feel isolated and how you can invite God’s love to fill those spaces. Let His Word be a light that leads you through loneliness, offering you hope and strength in His presence.