Bible Daily

The Advent Journey: A Path to Understanding Christmas

Advent is a season of preparation that spans four weeks, leading up to the celebration of Christmas. It's a time when churches and families often light candles to symbolize different aspects of the Christmas story—hope, peace, joy, and love. But how can we incorporate this tradition into our homes in a meaningful way?

Observing Advent in Church and at Home

In many churches, the Advent season involves lighting a new candle each Sunday, each with its own theme, to reflect on God's promises and the coming of Jesus. This practice can be beautifully replicated at home, fostering a deeper connection with the Christmas narrative. Families can gather around, light a candle, delve into scripture, and share reflections, creating a sacred space for contemplation and spiritual growth.

Why Engage with Advent Readings?

The Christmas story is deeply rooted in scripture, beginning not in the New Testament but in the Old Testament, with the first promises of a Savior in Genesis. While Christmas festivities like pageants and movies are enjoyable, engaging with the Bible during Advent helps us understand the profound significance of Jesus's birth. It connects us with the ancient prophecies and the long-awaited fulfillment of God's promise.

First Week of Advent: Hope and Prophecy

As we light the Hope Candle or Prophecy Candle, we reflect on the anticipation of the Messiah, foretold in the Old Testament. Here are some key readings:

  • Genesis 3:15: The promise of enmity between the serpent and the woman's offspring, symbolizing the future defeat of evil by Jesus.
  • Isaiah 7:14: The prophecy of the virgin birth.
  • Isaiah 9:2: The promise of light for those in darkness.
  • Isaiah 11:1-10: The prophecy of the Messiah from Jesse's lineage.

These scriptures remind us of God's faithfulness and the hope that was placed in the hearts of His people for centuries.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, as we enter this season of Advent, let us remember Your promises from the beginning. Help us to embrace the hope that comes with the birth of Jesus, and let it fill our lives with joy and peace. In Jesus's name, Amen.

Second Week of Advent: Peace

The Peace Candle or Bethlehem Candle signifies the peace Jesus brings. Here are the readings:

  • Isaiah 9:6-7: Jesus as the Prince of Peace.
  • Luke 2:52: The growth of Jesus in wisdom and stature.

This week, we reflect on the peace that surpasses understanding, which Jesus offers to us, encouraging a heart of tranquility amidst life's chaos.

Prayer:

Father God, thank You for the peace that Jesus brings. Help us to prepare our hearts as Bethlehem was prepared for His arrival, to receive Your peace in our lives. Amen.

Third Week of Advent: Joy

The Joy Candle or Shepherd’s Candle, often pink, marks the shift towards celebration:

  • Isaiah 65:18: God's promise of joy in the new creation.
  • Colossians 1:19-20: The joy of reconciliation through Christ.
  • John 3:16-17: The joy of eternal life through God's love.

This week, we celebrate the joy of Christ's coming, not just for His birth but for the salvation He offers.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, let the joy of Jesus's birth fill our hearts. Help us to share this joy with others, reflecting Your love and grace. Amen.

Fourth Week of Advent: Love

The Love Candle or Angel’s Candle reminds us of God's ultimate act of love:

  • John 13:34: The new command to love one another.
  • 1 John 4:9-12: God's love manifested in sending His Son.

This week, we focus on the love that God has for us, encouraging us to love others in return.

Prayer:

Jesus, let Your love guide us this Christmas. Help us to give as You gave, with compassion and charity. Amen.

Christmas Eve: The Christ Candle

On Christmas Eve, we light the Christ Candle, symbolizing Jesus, the Light of the World:

  • John 1:1-14: The Word becoming flesh.
  • Matthew 1:22-23: The fulfillment of the prophecy of Immanuel.

This candle signifies the culmination of Advent, the arrival of our Savior, who brings light into the world.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, as we light the Christ Candle, let us remember the light that Jesus brings into our darkness. Help us to reflect His light in our lives. Amen.

As we journey through Advent, let us not lose sight of the profound message of Christmas. May we embrace the hope, peace, joy, and love that Jesus brings, and let these truths guide our celebrations and our lives.