December Ushers in a Time to Celebrate the Advent season.
There’s nothing wrong with giving gifts at Christmas, but this special time of year is really about receiving, and celebrating, the gift of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Advent is a fancier way of saying, “arrival.” It’s a time of waiting, of anticipating the coming of something (or someone) great. More precisely, the intent of Christmas is to reflect on the birth of Jesus. Born in a manger long ago, and now born in human hearts.
A Special Baby is On the Way
In Luke 1:31-33, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, to a teenage virgin named Mary. Gabriel brought a very unexpected message to this young woman. “You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”
Understanding the Advent Wreath
Each Sunday (or Saturday) of Advent season focuses on one of the four virtues Jesus brings: Hope, Love, Joy and Peace. The Christ candle, a white candle, is lit either on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. It reminds us that Jesus is the true light of the world. The order and exact wording will vary among churches, but the wreath remains a constant reminder of who we are called to be as followers of Jesus. The four weeks of Advent are celebrated by lighting one candle each Sunday (or Saturday). Three are purple because the color violet is a liturgical color that signifies a time of prayer, penance, royalty, and sacrifice. The third candle is pink and symbolizes joy.
Week One of Advent
With great excitement, the first candle on the Advent wreath is lit today. It symbolizes Christ as the Light of the World; the One who brings hope. His light illuminates all darkness. It’s up to us to allow the light of Christ to shine into our lives. Those darkest, deepest, places. If we do, the darkness will have to flee.
Create a Family Activity
It’s easy to create Advent season activities at home. Design your own Advent wreath. Get some candles and light one each week. Read Bible stories that bring the meaning of the candle being lit into focus. (hope, love, joy, peace). This is a great way to involve school-age children. Most kids love craft projects and many can read. The more children participate, the greater the meaning of Christmas becomes in their hearts. Close by praying as a family. Remember to keep things at an age-appropriate level so the experience is enjoyed. The prayer can be as simple as: “Lord Jesus, thank you for your birth. We are blessed and receive the hope you give. Amen.”
