As we journey through Advent, we hope to ground the good news of Christ amongst suffering and despair; re-examining hope, peace, joy, and love in a way that doesn’t shy away from the broken reality of our world.
Here, we share some reflections from people we look to, particularly our Palestinian Christian whānau, alongside some calls to action that invite our participation in Christ’s work for justice and peace.
Week one: Hope
“Hope that is seen, is no hope at all”
Romans 8:24
Watch: Christ is still under the rubble by Rev. Dr. Munther Isaac
Do: Check out these ideas for Christmas presents that support Palestine
Week two: Peace
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God”
Matthew 5:9
Watch: This incredible reflection by Palestinian Christian Daoud Nassar (embedded below).
Do: Check out our language guide for speaking about Palestine over the holidays. You can download it also.
Week three: Joy
“Restore our fortunes, Lord,
Psalm 126:3-6
as streams renew the desert.
Those who plant in tears
will harvest with shouts of joy.
They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest.”
Watch: This reflection on joy amid suffering by Palestinian Christian Jack Nassar.
Listen: This kauhau on joy, hope and justice from AC4PP member Aleisha Hulbert-Putt.
Do: Consider how you can be a part of the Aotearoa BDS movement this summer
Week four: Love
“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven. For he causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”
Matthew 5:44-45
Read: This reflection on love by Palestinian Christian Jack Nassar.
Watch: From the Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem, Rev. Dr. Munther Isaac’s Christmas sermon Christ is still under the rubble.
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