Advent is a cherished season in the Christian calendar that prepares believers for the celebration of Christmas. One of the most prominent symbols of Advent is the Advent wreath, which holds four candles, each representing different aspects of the season. In this article, we will explore the significance of Advent candles, their order, and the meanings behind each candle.
What is Advent?
Advent is a period of four weeks leading up to Christmas, starting on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day. The word “Advent” comes from the Latin word adventus, which means “coming” or “arrival.” This season is a time of reflection, prayer, and anticipation as Christians prepare for the coming of Jesus Christ into the world, both in His birth at Christmas and in His eventual second coming.
The Advent Wreath
The Advent wreath is a circular garland of evergreen branches, symbolizing eternal life. It typically holds four candles arranged in a circle, with a fifth candle, the Christ candle, placed in the center. The circular shape of the wreath represents God’s unending love and the eternal life that believers have through Christ.
The Candles of Advent
Each candle on the Advent wreath holds a specific meaning and is lit in a particular order during the Advent season. Traditionally, the candles are lit during Sunday services, and many families also incorporate this practice into their home celebrations.
First Candle: The Prophecy Candle (Hope)
The first candle, often referred to as the Prophecy Candle, symbolizes hope and expectation. It is lit on the first Sunday of Advent. This candle serves as a reminder of the prophecies made in the Old Testament regarding the coming of the Messiah. Key passages include Isaiah 9:2, which speaks of a great light coming to those who walk in darkness, and Jeremiah 33:14, which promises the fulfillment of God’s covenant.
Lighting this candle signifies the hope that comes from God’s promises and the anticipation of Christ’s arrival. It encourages believers to reflect on the hope they have in Jesus, who is the fulfillment of all prophecies.
Second Candle: The Bethlehem Candle (Faith)
The second candle is known as the Bethlehem Candle, symbolizing faith. This candle is lit on the second Sunday of Advent. It represents the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, where Jesus was born. The story of their journey is captured in Luke 2:4-7, highlighting their faith in God’s plan despite the challenges they faced.
By lighting the Bethlehem Candle, Christians are reminded to have faith in God’s promises. Just as Mary and Joseph trusted in God’s guidance, believers are encouraged to trust in God’s plan for their lives, even when circumstances seem uncertain.
Third Candle: The Shepherd’s Candle (Joy)
The third candle, often called the Shepherd’s Candle, represents joy. It is lit on the third Sunday of Advent, traditionally known as Gaudete Sunday. The term Gaudete means “rejoice” in Latin, reflecting the joy that the shepherds experienced upon hearing the news of Jesus’ birth. This joy is illustrated in Luke 2:8-11, where the angels proclaim good news of great joy for all people.
Lighting the Shepherd’s Candle serves as a reminder that the birth of Christ brings joy to the world. It invites believers to rejoice in the salvation that Jesus offers and to share this joy with others, reflecting the love of Christ in their interactions.
Fourth Candle: The Angel’s Candle (Peace)
The fourth candle, known as the Angel’s Candle, symbolizes peace. It is lit on the fourth Sunday of Advent and reminds Christians of the angels’ announcement of peace on earth to the shepherds (Luke 2:14). The message of peace is central to the Christmas story, as Jesus is often referred to as the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).
By lighting the Angel’s Candle, believers are encouraged to seek peace in their lives and to be peacemakers in a world filled with conflict. It serves as a call to embody the peace of Christ in their interactions with others, fostering unity and love within their communities.
The Christ Candle
The fifth candle, known as the Christ Candle, is typically white and placed in the center of the wreath. It is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, symbolizing the arrival of Jesus Christ, the Light of the World. This candle represents the fulfillment of all the hopes and promises celebrated during Advent.
Lighting the Christ Candle signifies the culmination of the Advent season and the celebration of Jesus’ birth. It is a moment of joy and gratitude as believers reflect on the significance of Christ’s coming into the world and His role as the Savior.
see also: The Purpose of the Advent Calendar
The Spiritual Significance of Advent Candles
The Advent candles are not just decorative elements; they carry deep spiritual significance. Each candle invites believers to engage with essential aspects of their faith:
Hope: The first candle encourages believers to look forward with hope, trusting in God’s promises.
Faith: The second candle invites believers to deepen their faith and reliance on God’s plan, just as Mary and Joseph did.
Joy: The third candle reminds Christians of the joy that comes from knowing Jesus and sharing that joy with others.
Peace: The fourth candle challenges believers to be instruments of peace in a world that often lacks it.
Light of Christ: The Christ Candle represents the ultimate fulfillment of hope, faith, joy, and peace in the person of Jesus.
How to Incorporate Advent Candles in Your Celebration
Many families and churches incorporate the lighting of Advent candles into their traditions. Here are some ways to engage with this meaningful practice:
Weekly Lighting: Each Sunday of Advent, gather with family or friends to light the corresponding candle, read relevant Scripture passages, and pray together.
Devotional Time: Use each week to focus on the theme of the candle. Consider creating a family devotional that discusses hope, faith, joy, and peace in relation to the Christmas story.
Home Decorations: Incorporate an Advent wreath into your home decor, making it a visible reminder of the season’s significance.
Community Worship: Participate in community services that include the lighting of Advent candles, helping to build a sense of connection and unity within the church.
Acts of Kindness: As you reflect on each candle’s meaning, consider performing acts of kindness or service that embody the themes of hope, faith, joy, and peace.
Conclusion
Advent candles are a beautiful and profound way to prepare for the celebration of Christmas. They serve as a reminder of the hope, faith, joy, and peace that come from the birth of Jesus Christ. By engaging with the themes represented by each candle, believers can deepen their spiritual journey during this special season. As we light each candle, we not only anticipate the arrival of Christ but also embrace the transformative power of His love in our lives and the world around us.
As the Advent season unfolds, let us remember the true meaning of this time—a preparation of our hearts for the coming of Christ, the light of the world.
Related topics:
- What Is the Meaning Behind the Advent Calendar?
- What to Fill an Advent Calendar with?
- What Is the First Advent?