As Christians approach the Second Week of Advent beginning Dec. 10, this series from partner Catholic News Service helps to remind us God has not forgotten us even during bleak times, a promise even more significant than that of a couple in marriage.

Drawing our attention to the promise of now and forever
More even than the promise of a husband and wife in marriage, God also promises to be faithful to his people. It is a promise to ponder anew in the Scripture readings during Advent, writes Father Herb Weber.

Admitting our shortcomings can light the way to God’s comfort
As the sun sets at 4:30 in the afternoon, the added candles of each Advent week show us that God’s light has a way of shining brighter when life seems darkest — especially within our hearts, writes Barbara Hosbach.

Hope in motion, preview of another rising: Poems for Advent
Msgr. J. Brian Bransfield, a Philadelphia priest working for the U.S. bishops’ conference in Washington, offers moving reflections for the Advent and Christmas seasons through four poems.