A Thrill of Hope Commentary & Preaching Guide

A Thrill of Hope Commentary & Preaching Guide is an Advent–Epiphany resource offering scripture commentary, weekly sermon scaffolds, and practical tools to support preachers and worship planners.

Theme Overview

Advent begins in a weary world, fractured by division and despair. Yet across generations, humanity has clung to the hope of restoration, and God continues to draw near. The Messiah has saved us, is saving us, and will save us. Suffering is not the final word. As we journey through Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany, we watch for God’s saving work all around us: healing where there is hurt, courage where there is fear, hope where there is despair. The miracle of Immanuel did not end in Bethlehem. The thrill of hope persists.

This Commentary & Preaching Guide invites your community to recognize God’s saving work, participate in it, and share the hope of Immanuel throughout Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany.

Weekly Themes:

• First Sunday of Advent: Keep Awake
  Mark 13:24–37
• Second Sunday of Advent: Prepare the Way
  Mark 1:1–8
• Third Sunday of Advent: Among You Stands One
  John 1:6–8, 19–28
• Fourth Sunday of Advent: Let It Be with Me
  Luke 1:26–38
• Christmas: Good News of Great Joy
  Luke 2:1–14 (15–20)
• First Sunday after Christmas: My Eyes Have Seen Your Salvation
  Luke 2:22–40
• Epiphany: Another Road
  Matthew 2:1–12

Scripture passages used in A Thrill of Hope are from the Revised Common Lectionary, Year B.

Description

Created for pastors, worship leaders, and teachers, this resource helps ground your community in the season’s recognition of God’s saving work. In addition to original commentaries, the preaching guide also includes many tools which will be helpful in planning your Advent–Epiphany preaching. Each week includes:

• Weekly scripture readings framing the week’s direction
• Original scripture commentary, written by an experienced biblical scholar to inspire faithful and practical preaching
• A theological summary with justice-centered interpretation
• Bloom’s Revised Taxonomy objectives to guide formation (from remembering to creating)
• A sermon scaffold with suggested paths, illustrations, and applications
• Concise statements for refrains or takeaways
• Reflection and community questions for small groups or study
• Additional resources to deepen engagement (articles, art, music, media)

What I Get

ZIP File Download

• PDF with Commentary & Preaching Guide covers Advent, Christmas, the First Sunday after Christmas, and Epiphany
• PDF with Hymn Recommendations