The Incarnate Love of Advent: The Reason for It All

In this episode of Awaken to Grace, hosts Brian Myers and Jenn Stiles Williams are joined by Rev. Will Clark from Isle Faith United Methodist Church in Jacksonville to explore incarnate love during the fourth week of Advent. They discuss how Advent love differs from sentiment—it's God's concrete, costly decision to be with us and for us in Jesus. Jenn offers her "controversial take" that love should precede joy because fierce, radical love produces joy rooted in God's strength. Drawing on John 3:16-17, Joseph's obedient love, and reflections on reconciliation, they examine how love is active presence, protection, and truthful companionship. The conversation includes personal stories of courageous presence—Jenn accepting a new conference role, Will trusting God to love his daughter from afar, and Brian stepping into podcast ministry. They discuss practical ways to embody Christ's love through daily reflection, "holy ears," healthy boundaries, and the call for laity to carry incarnate love into public spaces. They conclude with reflections on how Joseph gave his whole life to this story and a prayer for lighting the fourth Advent candle.

Show Notes:

• [0:05] Introduction: The Incarnate Love of Advent - The Reason for It All
• [3:39] Jenn's Controversial Take: Love Before Joy
• [7:16] Courageous Presence: Where Has God's Love Moved You?
• [14:52] John 3:16 for Weary Hearts: God Came Not to Judge but to Save
• [20:53] Living Out Love: Daily Obedience and "Dear God...Amen"
• [31:07] Joseph's Obedient Love: Giving His Name and His Whole Life

For more information on the year-long Awaken to Grace series, visit awakenedtograce.org.

Produced by Wesley's Revival, a ministry of Studio Wesley. Original music by the Institute for Modern Worship.