Advent Series: Waiting in the Tension - Singing & Silence

An Advent journey through Luke 1–2

Advent is a season lived in tension—between promise and fulfillment, silence and song, waiting and joy. In the opening chapters of Luke, God’s long silence is finally broken, not first by dramatic thunder or commands from on high, but by whispers, cries, and songs. As we listen to these voices—from Zechariah’s silence to the angels’ chorus—we learn how to wait faithfully, how to hope deeply, and how to sing even before the dawn.

1st Sunday of Advent, November 30
The Silence Before the Song — Luke 1:5–25
God’s people have waited 400 years without a prophetic word. Zechariah and Elizabeth embody that long ache for redemption. Yet in their barrenness and in Zechariah’s temporary silence, God is preparing the soil of faith for a new beginning.

2nd Sunday of Advent, December 7
When God Interrupts the Silence — Luke 1:26–38
Into the quiet of Nazareth, the angel’s word breaks in. Mary’s life—and the world—will never be the same. God’s interruption is grace that calls for surrender and faith.

3rd Sunday of Advent, December 14
The Song of the Lowly — Luke 1:39–56
When Mary visits Elizabeth, joy leaps and song bursts forth. God lifts up the humble and fills the hungry with good things. The gospel begins among the overlooked.

4th Sunday of Advent, December 21
When Silence Gives Way to Speech — Luke 1:57–80
The first Advent song comes from a man who couldn’t speak. Zechariah’s tongue is loosed and out flows praise. Hope that has been muted now finds a voice.

Christmas, December 24
The Song That Shatters the Night — Luke 2:1–20
In the dark fields of Bethlehem, heaven’s song pierces the night. God’s glory shines in humility; His peace comes to the world. The silence is finally broken by good news of great joy.