5 They have known for a long time, if they are willing to testify, that I have belonged to the strictest sect of our religion and lived as a Pharisee. 6 And now I stand here on trial on account of my hope in the promise made by God to our ancestors, 7 a promise that our twelve tribes hope to attain, as they earnestly worship day and night. It is for this hope, your Excellency, that I am accused by Jews! Acts 26:5-7
The apostle Paul is on trial before King Agrippa. A group of Jews has taken an oath to kill Paul because of his conversion to Christianity and Paul has been transferred in custody to King Agrippa for trial. Paul claims his Roman citizenship and his right to a fair trial in Rome. It is interesting in this passage that three times Paul claims he is being accused by the Jews because of the hope he has because of his faith. He has not broken from Jewish tradition!
The first week of Advent focuses on the hope that comes from fulfilled prophecy that we can have and which was demonstrated by Paul in the face of opposition. God keeps his promises. Hope does not need to deny the past but it does look to a hopeful future. During Advent we see that God promised to send a Messiah and on Christmas he arrives Promised fulfilled! Granted the promise is not fulfilled as King Herod thought, in a military opponent to his worldly throne, but then God works outside our boxes and seldom answers exactly the way we think he should. He is God and sees a bigger picture and knows the absolutely best way to fulfill his promises. That is hope because I know the very best solution is being worked on. Blessings as you focus on the mystery and hope of this Advent season.
On the Way to Wonder 