The Advent season is a four-week period before Christmas. Each Sunday, one candle is lit along with scripture readings. I would like to share these verses with you. They are a great way to reflect on the promise of the Messiah both yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
The first candle symbolizes hope.
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)
The second candle symbolizes peace.
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favour rests.” (Luke 2:14)
The third candle symbolizes joy.
The angel said to the shepherds, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:10-12)
The fourth candle symbolizes love.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” (John 3:16-17)
Advent is about the anticipation of Jesus’ second coming, the remembrance of Jesus’ first coming, and the celebration of a new life we have in Jesus. For many people, 2020 is an eventful and trying year. As the year is drawing to an end, may we say “no” to the things that distract us from Jesus and say “yes” to the gifts — hope, peace, joy, and love — that God wants us to experience.
Emmanuel!
Grow In God's Grace 