Jesus is the Real Reason for Advent

What is Advent and Why Celebrate It?

As the holiday season approaches, one word is often heard and seen: Advent. But what does it really mean? Was Advent in the Bible? What is its significance in the Christian tradition? In this article, we will dig deep into the meaning and purpose of Advent, shedding light on its importance and how it is observed.

Advent, derived from the Latin word “adventus,” which means “coming,” is a time of anticipation and preparation for the birth of Christ. It is a period of four weeks leading up to Christmas, filled with celebrations and traditions that mark the journey from darkness to light, from longing to fulfillment. While the Bible doesn’t say anything about observing the tradition of Advent, this tradition has existed within the global Christian church for centuries. It is nearly as old as the church itself, with the earliest mentions of the tradition happening as early as 380 AD at the Council of Saragossa. 

During Advent, Christians reflect on the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love, represented by the four candles of the Advent wreath. Each week, a new candle is lit, signifying the growing light and the nearing arrival of Jesus. Three candles are purple with the third Sunday being pink.

Week 1 – Hope: purple candle for prophecy

Week 2 – Peace: purple candle for the Prince of Peace

Week 3 – Joy: pink candle for the shepherds

Week 4 – Love: purple candle for the angel

The Christmas Eve candle is White. This is why many Christmas Eve services have candle lighting as the light symbolizes many things, including Purity, Light, Restoration, Holiness, and Victory. God’s promises have come true and our savior is born.

Advent serves as a time of spiritual renewal, reminding believers of the true meaning of Christmas and their faith. Join us as we explore the significance of Advent and gain a deeper understanding of this cherished tradition.

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” Micah 5:2

The History and Origins of Advent

Advent traces back to the early centuries of Christianity. In its early days, Advent was similar to Lent, a time of fasting and reflection, rather than the joyful anticipation we associate with it today. It was a time when Christians would prepare their hearts and minds for the coming of Christ, not just in the celebration of His birth, but also in anticipation of His second coming. Over time, the focus shifted from a more somber preparation to a celebration of hope and expectation, aligning more closely with the themes of light emerging from darkness, which make sense and Jesus is the Light of the World. He is the Great I am!

As the church became more established, various customs began to emerge around the observance of Advent. By the Middle Ages, the Advent season was marked by specific liturgical practices and the use of the Advent wreath. These traditions helped to solidify the significance of Advent within Christian worship and community life. Today, Advent is widely observed in many Christian denominations, each adding its unique customs and interpretations to this sacred time of year, including the Advent Calendar that is so common today.

Why is Advent so Important?

The Advent season holds profound significance for Christians, acting as a spiritual preparation for the celebration of Christmas because Jesus is the reason for the season. Advent is a time when believers are invited to reflect on the deeper meanings of faith, hope, peace, and love, as they await the coming of Christ. The four weeks leading up to Christmas allow for a period of introspection, encouraging individuals to examine their lives and their relationship with God. This season serves as a reminder that, just as the world awaited the Messiah, Christians are called to be prepared for His return, or second coming, at any time.

Moreover, Advent emphasizes the themes of hope and expectation. In a world often filled with darkness and despair, the Advent season brings a message of light and promise. The lighting of the candles in the Advent wreath symbolizes not only the approaching arrival of Jesus but also the growing hope that His presence brings. Each week, as a new candle is lit, it serves as a reminder of the light that overcomes darkness and the hope that sustains believers through challenging times. Each Advent Candle within the wreath has a special meaning. There is a different focus each week leading up to Christmas Day.

Additionally, Advent encourages a communal aspect of faith. Many churches and congregations come together during this season to participate in various worship services, activities, and outreach programs. This sense of community fosters connections and strengthens the bonds of fellowship among believers, as they collectively journey through this period of anticipation. The shared experience of preparing for the arrival of Christ reinforces the importance of unity and love within the Christian faith. Make sure to do a search, within your community, to see what you can partake in to celebrate the Advent Season.

Understanding the Advent wreath and its symbols

The Advent wreath is a central symbol of the Advent season, rich in meaning and tradition. Typically made of evergreen branches, the wreath represents the eternal nature of God, while the circular shape signifies the unending love of Christ. The use of evergreens also serves as a reminder of the promise of new life and the hope of resurrection. Within this wreath, four candles are placed, each representing one of the four weeks of Advent, along with a fifth candle, the Christ candle, which is often placed in the center, lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.

What do the Advent Candles Mean?

Each of the four candles lit during Advent has its unique significance, corresponding to the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. The lighting of these candles marks a progressive journey towards the celebration of Christ’s birth. The first candle, often referred to as the “Prophet’s Candle,” symbolizes HOPE and expectation. The second candle represents PEACE, reminding believers of the promise of Christ as the Prince of Peace. The third candle, known as the “Shepherd’s Candle,” signifies JOY, while the fourth candle, the “Angel’s Candle,” represents LOVE and the message of God’s love for humanity.

The act of lighting the candles each week not only serves as a visual representation of the journey toward Christmas but also creates a space for reflection and prayer. Families and congregations often gather to read scripture passages, sing hymns or worship, and engage in prayer, creating a sacred atmosphere that enhances the spiritual significance of the season. The Advent wreath thus becomes a focal point for worship, encouraging believers to reflect on the profound truths of their faith in preparation for the Coming of Christ.

The four (candles) themes of Advent – Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love

Each week of Advent is dedicated to one of the four central themes: hope, peace, joy, and love. These themes provide a framework for reflection and contemplation during the season, as they encapture the essence of the Christmas message. The first theme, hope, is especially important as it invites believers to reflect on the promises of God and the anticipation of the coming Messiah. This hope is not merely a wish but a confident expectation that God is fulfilling His promises through Jesus Christ and he did. He has always fulfilled his promises. Which means we know that one day Jesus will come back!

The theme of peace follows, emphasizing the profound peace that Jesus brings into the world. It is a peace that transcends understanding, offering solace in times of turmoil and unrest. This week encourages believers to seek peace within themselves through the Holy Spirit of Jesus and to extend that peace to others, fostering harmony in their relationships and communities. The message of peace is crucial, especially in a world often filled with conflict and strife, reminding Christians of their calling to be peacemakers. Remember Jesus was the PRINCE OF PEACE.(Isaiah9:6)

Joy is the third theme, celebrating the great joy that comes with the birth of Christ. This joy is rooted in the knowledge of salvation and the relationship believers have with God. It invites Christians to express their gratitude and delight in God’s goodness, encouraging them to share this joy with others. The final theme, love, encapsulates the essence of the Christmas story, highlighting God’s unconditional love for humanity. It calls believers to embody this love in their interactions with others, reflecting the light of Christ in a world that deeply needs it.

Advent traditions and practices around the world

Advent is observed in diverse ways across different cultures and countries, each tradition adding a unique flavor to the season. In many Western Christian traditions, the Advent calendar is a popular practice. This calendar helps families count down the days until Christmas, often featuring small doors that reveal a treat or scripture verse for each day. The Advent calendar serves as a tangible reminder of the anticipation of Christ’s birth, engaging families in the theme of waiting and preparing.

In several European countries, such as Germany and Austria, festive markets spring up during the Advent season. These markets are filled with handmade crafts, delicious foods, and warm drinks, creating a vibrant atmosphere of community and celebration. Many people participate in Advent concerts and performances, drawing on the rich musical traditions associated with the season. These events foster a sense of togetherness and joy, as communities come together to celebrate the approaching arrival of Christmas.

In some cultures, specific customs are observed to mark the Advent season. For instance, in Mexico, Las Posadas is celebrated, reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. This nine-day celebration culminates in joyous festivities that highlight the importance of hospitality, community, and the Christmas story. Such traditions not only deepen the understanding of Advent’s significance but also create lasting memories for families and communities, enriching the overall experience of the season.

Advent calendars and their purpose

Advent Calendars serve as a beloved tradition for many during the holiday season, providing a playful and meaningful way to count down the days to Christmas. There are Advent calendars for adults and children. Traditionally starting on December 1st and continuing until Christmas Eve, these calendars can vary widely, offering a range of treats, scriptures, or activities behind each door. The purpose of the Advent calendar goes beyond mere anticipation; it is an invitation to engage in a daily reflection on the themes of Advent and the coming of Christ.

Many Advent calendars are designed to include daily scripture readings or devotional prompts, encouraging families to gather each day for a brief time of reflection and prayer. This practice helps to cultivate a spirit of anticipation and prepares hearts for the celebration of Christmas. As families open each door, they are reminded of the significance of the season and the hope, peace, joy, and love that Jesus brings into the world. This daily ritual can foster a deeper connection to faith, reinforcing the importance of spiritual growth during the Advent season.

In addition to traditional calendars, modern interpretations have emerged, featuring everything from chocolate to small gifts and activities. While the format may differ, the underlying purpose remains the same: to create a sense of excitement and anticipation for Christmas while inviting individuals and families to pause and reflect on the meaning of the season. Advent calendars serve as a bridge between the secular celebration of Christmas and the spiritual preparation of Advent, blending joy with meaningful observance.

The role of Advent in Christian worship and liturgy

Advent plays a significant role in Christian worship and liturgy, serving as a time of preparation for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. Many churches incorporate Advent themes into their services, creating a focused atmosphere that aligns with the season’s purpose. The use of liturgical colors, such as purple or blue, signifies the themes of anticipation and preparation, while the lighting of the Advent wreath during services helps to visually represent the journey through Advent.

Throughout the Advent season, churches often engage in specific liturgical practices, such as special prayers, readings, and hymns that reflect the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. These elements enhance the worship experience, creating a sense of community and shared anticipation among congregants. The use of scripture readings that recount the prophecies of Christ’s coming and the nativity story helps to ground the season in biblical truth, reinforcing the significance of Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Additionally, many congregations engage in outreach and service projects during Advent, embodying the themes of love and compassion. This might include food drives, charitable donations, or community service initiatives aimed at helping those in need. By actively participating in acts of service, congregations live out the message of Advent, reflecting the love that Christ exemplifies and demonstrating their commitment to being His hands and feet in the world.

So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son. John 1:13 NLT

Incorporating Advent into your personal spiritual practice

Incorporating Advent into personal spiritual practice can greatly enrich the experience of the season, allowing individuals to engage deeply with its themes and significance. One way to do this is by creating a personal Advent devotional. This might include setting aside time each day for prayer, reflection, and scripture reading focused on the Advent themes. By intentionally dedicating this time, believers can cultivate a deeper awareness of the spiritual significance of the season and prepare their hearts for Christmas.

Another practice is to create an Advent wreath at home, where individuals or families can light the candles each week while engaging in prayer and reflection. This can foster a sense of connection to the broader Christian community and serve as a reminder of the journey from darkness to light. Incorporating scripture readings related to each week’s theme can enhance this experience, prompting thoughtful discussions and personal insights.

Additionally, individuals can foster acts of kindness and service during Advent, embodying the themes of love and compassion. This might involve volunteering at local charities, reaching out to those in need, or simply performing small acts of kindness in everyday interactions. By actively living out the values of Advent, believers can deepen their connection to the season and reflect the light of Christ in their communities, making the celebration of Christmas even more meaningful.

Conclusion: Embracing the True Meaning of Advent

As the Advent season unfolds, it serves as an important reminder of the anticipation and preparation that characterized the arrival of Jesus Christ. By diving into the history, significance, and traditions associated with Advent, believers can deepen their understanding and appreciation of this sacred time. The journey through hope, peace, joy, and love invites individuals and communities to reflect on the profound truths of their faith, fostering a spirit of renewal and anticipation.

Incorporating the themes of Advent into personal spiritual practices and worship allows believers to engage meaningfully with the season. Whether through the lighting of candles, the use of Advent calendars, or acts of service, each practice brings individuals closer to the heart of the Christmas message. The celebration of Christ’s birth becomes not just a historical event but a living reality that resonates within each believer.

Ultimately, the significance of Advent lies in its ability to draw believers into a deeper relationship with God. As they await the celebration of Christmas, Christians are called to embrace the true meaning of Advent, reflecting on the hope, peace, joy, and love that Jesus brings into the world. By doing so, they prepare their hearts and lives to receive the incredible gift of Christ, not only during the holiday season but throughout the entire year.