The Meaning of Advent

Advent - Hope, Joy, Peace and Love

Today is the third Sunday of Advent. Advent, from the Latin adventus meaning coming, is a four week period of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus at Christmas.  Advent is about the good news that God loves His creation and sent His son, Jesus, to save us and give us new life. 

Historians estimate that Advent has been celebrated since the 4th century. This year, 2023,  the first Sunday of Advent was on December 3, 2023. On the four Sundays preceding Christmas Day many churches will light candles symbolizing hope, love, joy and peace. The candles are often a part of an Advent wreath.

Representing eternity, an Advent wreath is a circular garland of evergreen branches. On the wreath are arranged four candles for the four Sundays in Advent and a fifth one usually in the centre called the Christ candle. During Advent one candle on the wreath is lit each Sunday. Often families or other small groups of people give devotional readings while lighting the candles during the worship service. The Christ candle is lit on Christmas Eve.

The lighting of the Advent wreath began in 16th century Germany.  The original purpose of the wreath was to bring focus on Christmas rather than on Advent. 

Besides candles on the Advent wreath, people often put a lit candle in the window when a family member was away or when a family member had died to remember them.  It was a way to let them know they are missed.  It was also seen as a silent prayer for the safe return of the absent person.  It was also a sign that someone was at home tending the fire and waiting for their return. 

Let your light shine and share Hope, Joy, Peace and Love with others. 

#livinglifeabundantly  #publishedauthor  #travellingtuesdays