As we conclude our annual theme of Growing in Hope, Christmas invites us to rediscover what hope truly is. Biblical hope is not a wish or a fragile desire – it is a strong and confident expectation rooted in the unchanging character of God. The hope of Christmas is found not in a season, but in a Savior.

Scripture anchors our hope in the promised Messiah: “For to us a child is born… and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” – Isaiah 9:6. Christmas declares that God did not remain distant from our brokenness. He entered it. In Jesus, God came near to rescue, redeem, and restore what sin had fractured. Our hope rests in the reality that salvation has been initiated, and peace has been made possible through Christ.

Christmas also reminds us that hope endures in the midst of trials. Many of us carry burdens into this season—unresolved pain, uncertainty about the future, or weariness from the year behind us. Yet Scripture calls us to “rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, and be constant in prayer” –Romans 12:12. Hope in Christ becomes an anchor for our souls, holding us steady when life feels unsteady.

A simple practice for this Christmas week: each day, pause to name one promise of God you are trusting, one person you can encourage with hope, and one situation you intentionally place back in Christ’s hands. As we fix our gaze on Jesus rather than our circumstances, may this Christmas deepen our hope and carry it with us into the year ahead.

As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, may our hearts be renewed, our faith strengthened, and our lives firmly anchored in the true hope of Christmas – a hope that carries us forward into the year ahead.

As the magic of the holidays fills the air, you may be feeling more than ready to embrace the joy that lies ahead – and, perhaps, a little stressed about the logistics that come with that. This issue of American Lifestyle is here to help with whatever plans you have, offering smart strategies for simplifying your festivities, scrumptious recipes for holiday feasts, a look at a great city to enjoy the season in, and an uplifting story of artistic triumph.

CLICK HERE or on the picture to view the current American Lifestyle Digital magazine. 

As always, it’s a pleasure to send you this magazine.

Do you have a financial goal for the New Year? At Dove Investments, we’re here to help you reach your financial goals. Our team is committed to walking alongside you. Call us today at 1-877-436-8426 or schedule an appointment through our website.

The Dove Investments Team