Biblical Women and the Promise of Advent

Women are essential figures in the overarching Biblical narrative, playing a crucial role in the promise of redemption. Although their stories are often regarded as minor side notes, even brief moments—such as Sarah’s laughter, Hagar’s awe-filled question, “Have I seen the Lord and remained alive after seeing him?” Ruth’s persistence, and Hannah’s joyful thanksgiving for Samuel—build up to Mary’s powerful, justice-affirming hymn: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God, my Savior.”

Men, writing these stories, tried to pass them by but could not ignore them. Throughout Scripture, it is the women—always waiting and praying (in the context of the times) for sons who would make their lives worthwhile. Oftentimes unaware of their own value, they knew to whom they belonged and were ready to give their thanks to God alone. They were convinced that the sons they were promised would bring peace to their world.

When Mary declares, “He has shown the strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,” Mary is not just imagining peace as the absence of war—she is foretelling. Later, she will realize that her beloved firstborn belongs not just to her but to the world.

In this retreat, we will explore God’s promises that lead up to the Coming, which we anticipate during Advent. We will carefully reflect on the meaning of peace and consider these sacred stories—the most beautiful ever written—from the perspective of the women whose faith and obedience changed the world forever.