The Christian Christmas Tradition of the Advent Wreath
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said,
"I am the light of the
world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light
of life. ~ John 8:12
In our first Christmas tradition, we recognize the Advent wreath, which
symbolizes several things:
The evergreen, which represents everlasting life found in
Christ.
The circle of the wreath, which symbolizes life without end.
And the candles, which remind us of Christ as the light of the world.
Within the wreath, we place three purple candles, one rose-colored candle,
and one large white candle. The first purple candle, representing royalty (HOPE), was lit last week. The remaining two purple candles, representing
humility (PEACE) and penitence (JOY), will be lit today and next week on second
and third Sundays in Advent. The rose-colored candle, representing joy and
happiness (LOVE), will be lit at our Christmas Cantata Candlelight Service on
Sunday, December 17, 2006. A tall white candle, to be placed in the center, is lit
on Christmas Day to symbolize God's special light that has indeed come to this
dark world.
There are numerous journeys - a journey of the mind to imaginary places, a
journey by car, train, airplane or even bicycle to visit relatives or friends.
Journeys, each with varying degrees of significance and meaning. Thousands of
years ago a journey was begun in heaven. Destination: earth! This journey has affected
the lives of millions of people around the world. Each of us will take many
journeys, but the most significant journey we will make is toward the One whose
journey brought eternal life to humanity.
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