A Thrill of Hope: Lighting the Path of Advent to Christmas
As the days grow shorter and the air becomes crisp, the anticipation of Christmas begins to fill the hearts of many. For Christians worldwide, this anticipation is marked by the season of Advent, a period of preparation and reflection leading up to the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. One of the most cherished traditions of Advent is the lighting of Advent candles. We will explore the rich symbolism behind these candles and how they guide us towards the joyous celebration of Christ's birth.
The Advent Wreath
The Advent wreath, typically made of evergreen branches, symbolizes the eternal life that Christ offers to believers. Its traditionally circular shape represents God's unending love and the everlasting nature of His promise. The wreath is adorned with four candles, each lit on a specific Sunday leading up to Christmas.
The Advent Candles
The First Candle - Hope
The first candle, traditionally a purple, often referred to as the "Prophecy Candle," represents hope. It reminds us of the anticipation of the Old Testament prophets who foretold the coming of the Messiah. Their words were a beacon of hope in a world filled with darkness. As we light this candle, we focus on the hope that Christ's arrival brings to our lives and to the world.
The Second Candle - Peace
The second candle, traditionally purple, represents peace. It is sometimes called the "Bethlehem Candle" as it symbolizes the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. It reminds us of the peace that Christ brings to our hearts when we invite Him into our lives. As we light this candle, we contemplate the inner peace that comes from a relationship with Jesus.
The Third Candle - Joy
The third candle, traditionally pink, is often referred to as the "Shepherd's Candle" and represents joy. It recalls the joy of the shepherds who received the angelic announcement of Christ's birth. This candle reminds us that the arrival of Jesus is a source of great joy and celebration. As we light this candle, we focus on the joy that Christ's presence brings to our lives.
The Fourth Candle - Love
The fourth candle, traditionally purple, represents love. It is sometimes called the "Angel's Candle" as it reminds us of the angels who proclaimed the good news of Jesus' birth. This candle symbolizes the love of God, which is the greatest gift of all. As we light this candle, we reflect on the love that God has shown us through the gift of His Son.
The Fifth Candle - The Christ Candle
In modern-day interpretations of the Advent wreath, a fifth candle, known as the Christ Candle, is placed in the center of the wreath. This candle is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day and symbolizes the birth of Jesus, the Light of the World. It is white, signifying the purity and divinity of Christ. Lighting the Christ Candle marks the culmination of the Advent season and the beginning of the Christmas celebration.
The lighting of Advent candles is a beautiful and meaningful tradition that helps Christians prepare their hearts and minds for the birth of Jesus Christ. As we journey through Advent, the candles serve as a reminder of the hope, peace, joy, and love that Christ brings into our lives. They guide us through the darkness of winter, lighting our path to the ultimate celebration of Christmas, when we welcome the Light of the World into our hearts and homes.
As you light the candles each week, consider using this prayer from Henri J.M. Nouwen:
Lord Jesus, Master of both light and darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparation for Christmas. We who have so much to do seek quiet spaces to hear Your voice each day. We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us. We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of Your Kingdom. We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of Your presence. We are Your people, walking in darkness yet seeking the light. To You, we say, “Come, Lord Jesus!”
Creative Prayer Activity
Consider taking a prayer walk in nature to collect supplies for an Advent wreath. Below are some instructions on how you can make your own.
Instructions for Wreath
Gather supplies on a prayer walk in nature or buy fresh greens.
Choose a container for your wreath that will hold the arrangement.
Cut floral foam to fit the desired size.
Add candles.
Layer fresh greens draped over the edges of the floral foam.
Add extras like berries and pinecones.
Supplies Needed
Fresh-cut or store-bought greenery
Container (like a serving dish or cake stand)
Floral foam
3 purple candles
1 pink candle
1 white candle
Pruning sheers or scissors
Extras (ie pinecones or berries)
Optional: floral wire or floral tape
