Advent is all about waiting for the Christ-child. The best part of Christmas is that the waiting is over. It’s time to light the Christ candle. And not just the one in the center of the Advent wreath but, more importantly, the Christ candle in our own hearts.
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas at all if it weren’t for the birth of Jesus Christ. The word is a joining together of two words: Christ and mass = Christmas; the worship of Christ. Long ago prophecies spoke of the coming Messiah. God promised to send a Savior to His people.
Wise Men
Matthew 2:1-11 tells of the Magi (wise men) who came from the east with one purpose in mind—to find the Christ child. A star went before them throughout their travels; the distance very far.
Matthew 2:10-11 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his other Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
Overjoyed
Finding Jesus is meant to birth the presence of overflowing joy in our hearts, too. Holy joy then finds expression through actions. The first being the desire to worship Christ. The second being the desire to give gifts. Tangible giving pours forth from thankful hearts.
Light Your Heart’s Christ Candle
If you haven’t asked Jesus into your heart yet, now is the perfect time to do so. Will you follow the example of the wise men? It’s quite simple. The ears of Jesus are listening and His arms are open wide. You need only utter a short prayer from a humble heart: “Lord, I hunger for your presence. Forgive me, forgive me, forgive me. Thank you for coming to that manger so long ago to save sinners like me from their sins. I need what only You can give—the priceless gift of grace. Please light the Christ candle in my heart. Never let it dim. With Your light in my life, my tomorrows will not be like my yesterdays. You are my hope. My desire is to worship Your holy name as long as I live. Amen”
Burn Brightly
Now that you’ve got your Christ candle burning bright, help others light theirs, too. This might come by sharing your own testimony or by reading the Biblical account in Matthew. Be about the Lord’s work, eager to share with those in need. Staying connected to a Christ-centered, grace-filled, community of believers is a gift you give yourself. It’s there that you will find encouragement and the sweet aroma of friendship.
