Where did the Advent Wreath come from? Who started it and what does it mean? Over 80% of the world's Christians observe the season of Advent, but many Christians don't know much about it. I hope today's WEEKLY MESSAGE will help answer some of these questions.
Origins of the Advent Wreath are from pre-Christian times when circular wreaths of evergreens and candles were used to encourage people during the cold and darkest season of the year to take heart that longer days and warmer weather would soon return. The Christian Church adopted this practice during Advent to encourage people to anticipate better days with the coming of Christ, who had arrived at the first Advent at Christmas, and would come again in glory in the Second Advent to judge all people.
Like many Christian observations, Advent came to be observed gradually over centuries. The weeks prior to the winter solstice became weeks of preparation for the Christian celebration of Christ's birth. Four candles were placed on the Advent Wreath in a circle of evergreens which represent ongoing life. Three candles of purple represented Sundays of repentance, and one rose candle was for rejoicing on the third Advent Sunday. Some Advent Wreaths included a white Christ candle in its center.
Christ is the Light that came into the world to dispel the darkness of sin and to radiate the truth and love of God (John 3:19-21). Recently the Christian church replaced the repentance color purple with blue, the color of hope. In many Christian families, Advent wreaths are lighted before the evening meal during special prayers that invite Christ to return again to bring eternal life to all the faithful.
Like other seasons of the year, Advent is intended to stir up faith in the hearts of believers. It can also help to provoke questions among unbelievers, giving believers the opportunity to share the faith and hope they have in Jesus. If anyone asks you the meaning of Advent, don't be afraid to share your faith in Christ.
Midweek worship services are also held in many churches. This year I am preaching the three Advent services at Trinity Lutheran Church, Casa Grande, AZ, under the theme, “Christ our Prophet, Priest and King.” If you would like copies of my sermons from this series, contact me and I will Email them to you.
A blessed Advent to you all!
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