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Put on the Breastplate of Faith and Love

December 9, 2024

Isaiah 5:8-12,18-23| 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11| Luke 21:20-28

Staying positive and hopeful can be incredibly difficult at times. Life has a way of wearing us down, whether through deep losses or the daily struggles we face. Even the small, seemingly insignificant challenges can feel overwhelming. And then, as if on cue, the holiday season arrives, with its expectations of joy and cheer. Yet, instead of feeling uplifted, we may find ourselves feeling empty, unable to tap into the joy others seem to radiate.

This was the state of mind I found myself in when I came across today’s reading from 1 Thessalonians:

“But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, and put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation.” (1 Thessalonians 5:8)

This passage reminded me that, as people of faith, even when our belief feels fragile or elusive, we know of God’s profound love for us. A love so great that God became flesh and dwelt among us. God entered our world and showed us a path that transcends pain and despair, offering us a way to live that brings hope even in the darkest of times.

We are called to put on the breastplate of faith and love and a helmet of hope—armor that shields us from the hurts the world throws at us. This armor doesn’t just protect us, though. It empowers us to face life’s challenges with confidence and courage, and it invites us to become beacons of hope and love for others.

The beauty of this protection is that we don’t have to be strong or confident in ourselves to wear it. We need only put it on. So, as we go through this Advent season, why not try on that armor? Let it help you overcome your anxieties and despair. And let it empower you to be part of that light that darkness cannot overcome.

Gary Schweizer