Sunday Morning Sunshine: Christmas, The Advent Candles

The Advent Candles

The purple candle to be lit on the first Sunday of December 

is the Candle of Hope.

It is sometimes called "The Prophecy Candle"

in remembrance of the prophets,

especially Isaiah

who foretold of the coming of Christ.

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: 

The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son,

and will call him Immanuel. (Isaiah 7:14)

The second candle--The Bethlehem Candle--on the second Sunday

represents Love.

"This will be a sign to you: 

You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."  

(Luke 2:12)

The third candle--the pink one--lit is usually called,

The Shepherd's Candle

and represents Joy.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, 

keeping watch over their flocks at night. 

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, 

and the glory of the Lord shone around them, 

and they were terrified. 

But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. 

I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; 

he is the Messiah, the Lord. (Luke 2:8–11)

The last purple candle to be lit is called 

The Angel's Candle

It represents Peace.

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, 

praising God and saying, 

"Glory to God in the highest heaven, 

and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." 

(Luke 2:13–14)

Sometimes there is a fifth candle 

in the middle of the Advent wreath.

It is called

The Christ Candle 

and represents Purity

and the life of Christ who came into the world.

Christ was sinless, spotless and a pure Savior.

Those who receive Christ as their Savior

are washed of their sins and made whiter than snow.

"Come now, let us consider the matter," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool."

 (Isaiah 1:18)

This is a tradition that is an excellent way for families to keep Christ as the center of 

the season. Children learn the value and real meaning of Christmas.

Wishing you a blessed season.