One of the greatest challenges of life is to stay in touch with reality and hold on to hope at the same time. And let it be said, clearly and unequivocally, that precisely just such a stance describes the committed Christian. Some would boast of a strong faith, but would build it by ignoring the realities of the world around them. Others see clearly the reality of the world around them and therefore are unable to hold on to faith or hope in God at all. The biblical faith to which you and I are heirs does not require a choice, for it is a faith thoroughly grounded in reality and history, yet, through it all, trusting and hoping in God.

Today we begin a new Church season in a new Church year. Today is the first Sunday of Advent, the first season of the Church year. And in the course of this …