This message invites us to explore the true meaning of Christmas through the lens of the Nativity story. We're challenged to look beyond the commercialized version of the holiday and embrace the season of Advent - a time of longing and anticipation for Christ's return. Ethos is a life-giving community committed to keeping Jesus at its Center. Our vision is to be with Jesus, become like Jesus, and do what Jesus did so that we may love all people in Jesus' name. EthosOH.com Small Groups: EthosOH.com/Community ServeColumbus.org

As we journey through the Advent season, we're reminded of the profound truth that waiting is an integral part of our faith. The story of the little girl trapped in a well serves as a powerful metaphor for our spiritual lives. Like those rescuers working tirelessly to save her, we too are in a state of anxious anticipation, waiting for God's ultimate rescue. This waiting isn't passive; it's an active process of remaining in Christ, as emphasized in John 15. We're called to abide in Him, to stay close, even when the world seems to be falling apart around us. This proximity to Jesus reveals God's love, which is the true catalyst for our transformation. In our moments of doubt and despair, what we perceive as 'deconversion moments' can actually be invitations to dive deeper into God's grace. Let's remember that we're part of a global, historic movement of faith that transcends our immediate circumstances. When we feel alone or discouraged, we can draw strength from the knowledge that millions of believers worldwide share our journey. Ethos is a life-giving community committed to keeping Jesus at its Center. Our vision is to be with Jesus, become like Jesus, and do what Jesus did so that we may love all people in Jesus' name. EthosOH.com Small Groups: EthosOH.com/Community ServeColumbus.org

As we enter the Advent season, we're reminded of the profound hope that Jesus brings into our world. The prophet Isaiah's words in chapter 9 paint a beautiful picture of Christ as our 'Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.' This message invites us to reflect on how we perceive God, particularly through the lens of our earthly fathers. Whether our experiences with our dads were positive or painful, we're encouraged to see God as the perfect, everlasting Father who never disappoints or abandons us. This perspective can be transformative, healing wounds left by imperfect earthly fathers and allowing us to experience the deep, unconditional love of our Heavenly Father. As we light the Advent candles each week, we're reminded that Christ's light is growing brighter in our lives, dispelling darkness and bringing hope. This season, let's open our hearts to experience God's fatherly love in new and profound ways. Ethos is a life-giving community committed to keeping Jesus at its Center. Our vision is to be with Jesus, become like Jesus, and do what Jesus did so that we may love all people in Jesus' name. EthosOH.com Small Groups: EthosOH.com/Community ServeColumbus.org