Advent is a season of waiting, longing, and preparation—but also a time when God’s promises break through the shadows of injustice with the light of hope, peace, joy, and love.
This resource, God With Us: Advent Promises for a Just World, grounds communities in scripture and calls them into deeper discipleship through the core commitments of justice, equity, and belonging.
Designed for Bible study groups, Sunday school, small groups, or worship, each week offers:
- Scripture & Theme tied to the Revised Common Lectionary (Year C)
- Accessible commentary connecting ancient texts to contemporary realities
- Discussion questions linking faith to lived experiences of equity and justice
- Ritual practices that embody Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love
- Optional liturgies for worship integration
- Children’s activities designed to teach Advent themes of justice, love, and belonging in age-appropriate and engaging ways
Adaptable for diverse contexts and intergenerational settings, this study helps congregations name injustice while holding fast to the promise that Emmanuel—God with us—is already renewing the world.
This content was originally published by the General Commission on Religion and Race; republished with permission on ResourceUMC.org on July 28, 2026.