The Advent season has typically been observed as a time of preparation, as well as a time for Christians to focus on our hope. We’re reminded at this time of year of the ancient prophecies of a coming Savior, and we anticipate the light Christ brings to a world which is so often filled with darkness (literally and figuratively). This month, I encourage you to find moments of hope in your daily life, whether it's through quiet reflection, the lighting of an Advent wreath, kind words from a friend, or a moment of beauty in nature.

The last Sunday of October is observed as Reformation Day. You may or may not know that Martin Luther called for discussions of reform in the church a little over 500 years ago. He had no intention of initiating a global movement.

But there is also community in harmony—where some are doing one thing and others are doing something else, and it all fits together to make something beautiful.

Symbols are a powerful form of communication. Society is full of symbols for this reason…Church is full of symbolism, too. But that’s only true if we understand what the message is. In fact, in the absence of correct information the message of symbols can become obscured or even transformed into something entirely different.