Message Takeaways - Advent Week 1 - The Hope of a SaviorDarkness

Isaiah 9:1–7; Matthew 4:13–16; John 8:12; Luke 2:8–9

During Advent, we remember that the world is dark, but God has shined a great light. Isaiah tells us that a child would be born who would pierce the darkness, and Matthew confirms that Jesus is that promised Light. Throughout Scripture, God reminds us that our world is broken—spiritually blind, restless, deceived, and alienated from Him—yet He sent a Savior who steps into our darkness. Jesus Christ, fully God and fully man, came not as a political conqueror but as the suffering, saving Servant. As Advent begins, we fix our eyes on Him: the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.

Takeaways

• You see the darkness of the world clearly when you look through God’s Word.
• You recognize that only Jesus can break the power of sin and spiritual blindness.
• You trust that the Savior brings real peace, not the temporary peace the world promises.
• You remember that Advent calls you to slow down and fix your eyes on Jesus above all else.

As you enter this Advent season, step back from the noise, lights, and pressure of the holidays and remember the Light who has dawned upon those in deep darkness. Let the truth of Christ’s first coming anchor you, and let the certainty of His second coming give you hope, joy, and clarity in the days ahead.

Devotional 1 — “Light in the Darkness”
Isaiah 9:2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.
Reflection Question: Where do you most feel the “deep darkness” Isaiah describes, and how does Christ shine into that place?
Prayer Prompt: Lord, help me see Your light in the places where I feel overwhelmed, and let Your presence push back the darkness in my heart.

Devotional 2 — “Fulfilled in Christ”
Matthew 4:16 The people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned.
Reflection Question: How does knowing Jesus fulfills ancient prophecy strengthen your confidence in Him today?
Prayer Prompt: Father, strengthen my trust in Jesus as the promised Savior, and remind me that Your Word always comes true.

Devotional 3 — “No Longer Walking Blind”
John 8:12 I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.
Reflection Question: What area of your life still struggles with spiritual “blindness,” and what step of obedience could shine Christ’s light there?
Prayer Prompt: Jesus, open my eyes, lead me in Your light, and help me walk away from the places where darkness still clings.

Devotional 4 — “Where Does Jesus Fit?”
Colossians 1:13 He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son.
Reflection Question: In the busyness of the season, where might you be leaving Jesus at the margins instead of the center?
Prayer Prompt: Lord, re-center my life on You this Advent. Help me pause, listen, and let Your kingdom shape my days.