The 52 Dates Challenge is on—but how's everyone actually doing? In this candid follow-up, the team reconvenes to talk honestly about the highs, the hiccups, and the heart behind the 52 dates in 52 weeks challenge. We swap stories about favorite dates, share what we've learned about staying connected in the middle of real life, and tackle the big question: how do you reboot and recommit when a new year rolls around? If your date nights have stalled or you're looking for fresh inspiration, this episode will get you fired up and ready to show up for your spouse again.

Scripture: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." – John 1:14

Reflection:

What does it mean to you that God chose to be with us?

How will you carry the reality of "God with us" beyond Christmas?

Prayer for today: Emmanuel, thank You for leaving heaven's glory to be with us. As we celebrate Your birth, help us to live every day aware of Your presence. May we reflect Your light to a world that still walks in darkness. Amen.

Scripture: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." – John 3:16

Reflection:

How has God's love changed you?

Who in your life needs to experience love this week?

Prayer for this week: God of Love, thank You for loving us first. Fill us with Your love so that it overflows to others. Amen.

Scripture: "But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.'" – Luke 2:10

Reflection:

When have you experienced joy in an unexpected place?

How can you cultivate joy this season, even amid stress or difficulty?

Prayer for this week: God of Joy, open our eyes to see You in the ordinary moments. Help us to receive the good news with wonder, no matter what our circumstances. Amen.

Scripture: "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." – Luke 2:14

Reflection:

Where do you need God's peace today?

What would it look like to be a peacemaker in your corner of the world?

Prayer for this week: Prince of Peace, calm the storms within us and around us. Help us to extend Your peace to others, even when it costs us something. Amen.

Week 1: The Promise of Hope

Experience the wonder of the season as we sit down with kids to hear their Christmas memories, family traditions, and thoughts on Advent. Then tune in each week to journey through the themes of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love—anchored in Scripture and rooted in the heart of Christ’s coming. Through reflection, practical encouragement, and weekly prayers, this Advent series invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and remember the God who enters our darkness with light, our chaos with peace, our ordinary days with joy, and our world with transforming love. Join us as we prepare our hearts for Emmanuel—God with us.

In this episode, our staff unpacks the Community Workshop from Celebration 2025, discussing the four spaces of belonging and how they apply directly to UME communities. They discuss how couples naturally progress from public connections to social friendships to personal sharing and finally to intimate vulnerability, where real connection happens. Discover how understanding these spaces can help you find your place in community and welcome others in.