THE FIRST WEEK OF ADVENT
WRITTEN BY JUDITH ROBERTS
HOPE
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HOPE *
“Hope is not blind, nor does it view the world with rose-colored glasses. Hope lives in the real world and sees things as they actually are while still holding out for how things should be.” Changed in the Waiting, Adventure Devotional.
A staggering number of young people step away from the church after high school. The two stories in this article offer a glimmer of hope, showing how a faithful God relentlessly pursues their hearts. In a recent interview, Olivia Gulley, a high school senior, and Harlan Harbison, a college freshman, met with Evan Donald for interviews and candidly shared their experiences of finding a hopeful God during tough times.
Olivia and Harlan’s stories serve as a powerful reminder of the crucial role a supportive church community plays in their lives. The intense pressures and harsh realities young adults face today, often leave them feeling hopelessly crushed. It is vital they have a church community standing with them in support as they face the onslaught of spiritual battles, a place that offers hope and a sense of belonging in a world that often feels unrelenting. We are blessed that Crossroads is such a place.
HOPE
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HOPE *