Today marks the beginning of Advent, the first season of the new Church year. Advent culminates on Christmas Day with the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. It is a time of hope and anticipation as we prepare for the arrival of the Baby Jesus, a life which began on earth in a very humble manner in a manger and concluded with the pain and suffering on the Cross to give mankind a road to redemption through Him.
While there are many different traditions regarding how it is celebrated in various Christian churches and denominations, the Universal Church generally recognizes this time period which includes the four Sundays before Christmas. Most churches use a a circular wreath with candles in a symbolic color code including purple and pink, although this can vary. The center fifth candle, however, is universally accepted as representative of the birth of Christ, hence its pure white color signifying purity and perfection. The candles are placed on a wreath of evergreens signifying life with the white candle that represents Jesus as the Center of Life. One new candle is lighted each week with the final lighting generally on Christmas Eve. The circular nature of the wreath recognizes that God has no beginning and no end; he is everywhere. God the Father is the Creator. His Son, Jesus Christ, came to earth to save us from eternal damnation through His death and the Holy Spirit was sent to us after Jesus returned to Heaven to provide counsel and guidance to us in living a devout Christian life. The Trinity provides all the components needed to bring Christianity to life for us to its full extent. What a glorious God we have to have developed such a wonderful opportunity.
Many churches have a tradition of laying on the greens at the start of Advent, decorating the sanctuary with the symbol of life which remains throught the Advent Season. Often a joyous celebration is included, offering the singing of Christmas carols and, in some cases, an informal church party following the work.
Whatever your particular traditions, Advent is a wonderful way to set the stage for a Christ-centered Christmas for all who believe. And while the gifts and rich food and drink of the season are enjoyed by all, always remember the real Reason for the Season as we strive to make Him first in our lives. Being in second place to Christ is a fabulous place to be. Strive for it and love Him with your entire being. You will be blessed ten thousand fold.
God bless you, always let Him guide your thoughts and actions and have a wonderful and peaceful Sunday. And God, please bless our country, too, and help us get her back on track.
While there are many different traditions regarding how it is celebrated in various Christian churches and denominations, the Universal Church generally recognizes this time period which includes the four Sundays before Christmas. Most churches use a a circular wreath with candles in a symbolic color code including purple and pink, although this can vary. The center fifth candle, however, is universally accepted as representative of the birth of Christ, hence its pure white color signifying purity and perfection. The candles are placed on a wreath of evergreens signifying life with the white candle that represents Jesus as the Center of Life. One new candle is lighted each week with the final lighting generally on Christmas Eve. The circular nature of the wreath recognizes that God has no beginning and no end; he is everywhere. God the Father is the Creator. His Son, Jesus Christ, came to earth to save us from eternal damnation through His death and the Holy Spirit was sent to us after Jesus returned to Heaven to provide counsel and guidance to us in living a devout Christian life. The Trinity provides all the components needed to bring Christianity to life for us to its full extent. What a glorious God we have to have developed such a wonderful opportunity.
Many churches have a tradition of laying on the greens at the start of Advent, decorating the sanctuary with the symbol of life which remains throught the Advent Season. Often a joyous celebration is included, offering the singing of Christmas carols and, in some cases, an informal church party following the work.
Whatever your particular traditions, Advent is a wonderful way to set the stage for a Christ-centered Christmas for all who believe. And while the gifts and rich food and drink of the season are enjoyed by all, always remember the real Reason for the Season as we strive to make Him first in our lives. Being in second place to Christ is a fabulous place to be. Strive for it and love Him with your entire being. You will be blessed ten thousand fold.
God bless you, always let Him guide your thoughts and actions and have a wonderful and peaceful Sunday. And God, please bless our country, too, and help us get her back on track.
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