Advent is an extraordinary holiday that often gets lost in the Christmas hype. Unlike most holidays that happen in a day, Advent consists of four Sundays or four weeks until Christmas Eve.
Advent should not be confused with Christmas. While Christmas is a day of celebrating Christ's birth, the anticipation leading up to it is also vital. Here are some reasons why believers celebrate this holiday:
1. Advent allows us time to reflect.
The first day of Advent is considered the first day of the church calendar. The four weeks of preparation include anticipating Christ's arrival. During this time, believers reflect on preparing themselves to welcome Christ's coming. Whether through prayer, reflection, or music—we all must learn to open the year with Christ first.
2. It allows us to focus on Jesus.
Many people look forward to Christmas because of its fun activities. While giving gifts and enjoying feasts are significant, we must remember the real meaning of the holiday. Aside from celebrating the Nativity of Christ, Advent also serves as a reminder of his second coming. When he returns, we will find our place in heaven with him.
Additionally, celebrating Advent allows us to appreciate Christmas more. When we acknowledge our waiting for Jesus' arrival, we become even more appreciative when he arrives!
3. It allows us to celebrate God's love.
The Advent wreath is full of symbols. Usually made with evergreens, the wreath symbolizes continuous life. The wreath also represents God's eternity; through Christ, we may find everlasting life.
Aside from the wreath, each candle serves an essential holiday purpose. The first purple candle represents hope because of the prophecy of Christ's arrival. The second purple candle represents faith, which reminds us of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem. The third pink candle represents joy when Christ finally arrives. The final candle is purple which means peace. The last candle also acknowledges the angel's words, "Peace on Earth, Good Will Toward Men."
An additional candle, which is relatively new, is white and placed in the center of the wreath. People usually light this final candle on Christmas Eve, representing Christ's purity as our savior.
Bottomline:
In conclusion, these are just some reasons why we celebrate Advent. To learn more about this holiday, consider visiting your local church. The first day of Advent for 2022 starts on November 27, 2022, and ends on December 24. If you want to make a wreath in your home, please be careful with lighting candles.
- by Diane Davies, author of Life in the Neck: Advent of Christmas
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