We continue our devotions using “Miracle on 34th Street” as a modern-day parable to help us understand this first week Advent and its focus on Hope, especially in the face of doubt.  

Day 4: Hope in the Face of Doubt

Scripture: Mark 9:24 – “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”

Susan, the little girl in Miracle on 34th Street, begins the story doubting Kris Kringle. She’s been taught to reject anything fantastical. Yet, as she watches him embody kindness and generosity, her doubt gives way to belief. By the end of the story, her faith in him is unwavering, even taking a stand for Kris in the courtroom! 

In our faith journey, we often wrestle with doubt.  Like Susan, we may struggle to trust what we cannot fully understand. Yet Jesus invites us to bring our doubts to Him and let Him show us the truth. As the father prayed in Mark, we should come to Jesus and say the same prayer, help us overcome our unbelief.  Advent reminds us that our hope is secure in Christ, even when our faith wavers.

Lord, we believe in You, but we confess that doubt sometimes creeps in. This Advent season helps us overcome our unbelief. Strengthen our faith and remind us that our hope in You is never misplaced. In Jesus name, Amen.