Advent Season...

Thanksgiving is over, and our leftovers are gone. This Sunday, November 29 starts the Advent Season. What is Advent? Well, if you Google it you will get ton's of info!There are many varying details regarding the wreath and its origin but the symbolic meaning in all of them is very clear - the Manger and the Cross can not be separated. I've compiled bits from several resources to sum up what this tradition symbolizes.

"The nativity, the Incarnation, cannot be separated from the crucifixion. The purpose of Jesus’ coming into the world, of the "Word made flesh" and dwelling among us, is to reveal God and His grace to the world through Jesus’ life and teaching, but also through his suffering, death, and resurrection."

Advent:
"The word Advent means "coming" or "arrival." The focus of the entire season is the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ in his First Advent, and the anticipation of the return of Christ the King in his Second Advent. Thus, Advent is far more than simply marking a 2,000 year old event in history. It is celebrating a truth about God, the revelation of God in Christ whereby all of creation might be reconciled to God. That is a process in which we now participate, and the consummation of which we anticipate."

Advent Wreath/Candles:
The wreath is made of evergreen, either real or artificial. It's circular shape represents eternity, for it has no beginning and no end. The evergreen was chosen as it symbolizes growth and everlasting life.

There are five candles, three purple, one pink and one white (normally a larger pillar). They represent the four weeks of preparation. Each week as the candles are lit we are reminded of the growing light of Christ's presence. The meaning of the candles is as follows:

First Purple candle: represents hope.

Second Purple Candle: stands for love.

Third, pink candle: represents joy.

Fourth, purple candle: is a symbol of peace.

Fifth, white candle: is the Christ candle representing Christ Himself

Did you know? The third Sunday of Advent when the pink candle is lit is referred to as "Joyful Sunday?"

Where ever it's origin - the message is clear, Jesus is God's Son, born of a virgin, He came to save us. He is our Hope and only through Him will we find Peace and true Joy!
May your Christmas be filled with an abundance of all...
P. Hemphill