As we journey through Advent, we invite you to pause, reflect, and share in our series, What do you Fear? Each week builds on a theme that helps us name our fears, listen for God’s presence, and move toward courage, justice, and hope. Use the prompts below for personal journaling or for thoughtful conversations with others. Return to these prompts weekly to remember what we have read, learned, and carried with us during this special season.
Weekly prompts and guiding questions…
Nov 30–In the time of Herod, we long for God to Break In
As you enter the Advent season, what deep longings do you hold? Offer these yearnings and desires to God and trust that God hears and holds each one.
Dec 7– When we’re running out of hope, God is at work
Name what makes you feel hopeless. Offer your empties hope to God. Then name where you perceive the unfolding of God’s dreams. What do you hear? What do you see?
Dec 14– Even in our fear, we are called forward
Reflect on a time when you said “yes” to an invitation that scared you. How did you move through your fears? What did you learn or gain through that process?
Dec 21– When you’re afraid, give me your hand
When have you been a companion to someone through a fearful and challenging time? When has someone offered you the gift of accompaniment?
Dec 24– Good News is Louder than fear
Rev. Dr. Boyung Lee writes: “In a world where fear is curated and fed to us, proclaiming good news is a countercultural act.” What joyful, good news do you want to lift up today?
Christmastide– Let Fear fuel a fire for Justice
Reflect on a time when fear protected you from danger. As you enter a new year, commit to one action you can take to make the world safer and more just for everyone.
Epiphany– Fear doesn’t stop us
List all of the fears that are bubbling for you right now. Are there any that are holding you back or keeping you from living fully? Which fears are you acknowledging and moving through? Which fears might be at the threshold of transformation?
Closing encouragement…
Advent invites us to linger with fear and longing, to listen for God’s voice in the quiet, and to step forward with courage and care. May these prompts accompany your week, your conversations, and your reflections as we prepare for the God who comes to us in the midst of fear, hope, and love.