Advent Candles

Then spake Jesus again unto them saying I am the light of the world he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness but shall have the light of life – John 8:12 

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light – 1 Peter 2:9

 

In some religions, they believe that the advent candles often symbolize our Lord Jesus as the light of the world.

 

From the Latin word ‘adventus’ to where advent is derived, it is simply translated as ‘coming or arrival’. It is the preparation and waiting of our Lord Jesus’ nativity at Christmas. Others believe that it is in preparation of Christ’s second coming.

 

Others put the candles in beautiful and enticing candle holders because the young kids often remember the candles regardless of what they symbolize. They will understand it at the right age anyway.

 

There are a total of five candles to be lit during these times. The first four should be lit every Sunday leading to Christmas and the fifth or the last one should be reserved for Christmas day itself. In Western Christianity, advent candles normally come in 3 purple and blue colors and one pink candle. The purple one is commonly used around the church. The said color symbolizes and therefore represents repentance while the pink one is for joy. The fifth or the last candle is called the central candle which often comes as a huge white pillar candle. This candle is also being referred as Christ candle which is lit during the Christmas day.

 

Each time that the candle is lit, it is customary that you have to read a few related verses or scriptures from the bible. More often than not, the one who lights the candle shares something – a short statement or perhaps a testimony before everyone gets united in a prayer.

 

Each of the advent candles symbolizes something:

 

First Advent Candle – it bears two separate meanings; first, these candles are referred as a prophesy candle because it represents the promises of our Lord delivered by the prophets. On the other hand, it is also believed to symbolize the hope that we have In Christ our Lord.

 

Second Advent Candle – this signifies that there is no other way but Christ. He is our only way and we can never be lost when we are with Him. Thus, this candle is also called as the candle of way.

 

Third Advent Candle – Also called as the candle of joy, it reminds us that genuine joy comes only from God; it is ever lasting.

 

Fourth Advent Candle – it is also referred to as the candle of peace. From the word itself, it reminds us that Jesus is here to bring peace to our hearts and to the world. 

 

Fifth Advent Candle – this is the most special one as it represents our Jesus who is born to save everybody, including you and me. It is also called as the Christmas candle and it is mostly the biggest among the other advent candles.