This is the first homily of Father Harris’ Advent series, “Hope in Christ: Our Strength for Living.” We received the gift of hope from God through Holy Baptism. Hope is an abiding trust that God will fulfill His promises to humanity. This includes the timing and the way in which God will do it. Uncertainty about how situations will be resolved or about the end times cannot undermine our confidence in Christ. We remember what He has done for us. We remember that His return in glory is an expression of His love and mercy.