Thank you to the Behrandt family for reading for week one.
For centuries, it has been a tradition in the Christian church to use the lighting of candles within a wreath to symbolize the anticipation surrounding Jesus’ coming into the world. The wreath is made with evergreen branches, signifying continuous life. The circle of the wreath, with no beginning or end, symbolizes the eternity of God and the everlasting life found in Christ. Four candles on the outer edge of the wreath signify Hope, Joy, Peace, & Love. They are lit one by one on the four Sundays of Advent. The center candle is for Jesus. It is lit on Christmas Eve.
It is customary to use scriptures of prophesy and promise from the Old Testament during Advent and today’s scripture is found in the old testament.
Isaiah 2: 2-3
In days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised above the hills; all the nations shall stream to it. Many peoples shall come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.”
When we see twinkling lights hung on houses and trees, our eyes shine brighter and colorful reflections linger. The shadows that hide in life’s dark corners seem to lighten for a moment. Advent is a season of Hope.
When we smell baked bread and grandma’s homemade pie, our breath reaches deep down. As we exhale, we let go of any stress and worry we’ve carried too long. Advent is a season of Hope.
When we taste chocolate icing and drink hot peppermint-coco, our mouth becomes sweeter and our words more thoughtful. With sweetness on the tongue comes kindness on the lips. Advent is a season of Hope.
When we hear holiday jingles and sing Christmas songs, our ears remember childhood silliness and fun. We sing, dance, twirl, and laugh without care. Young and old share in moments that become treasured memories. Advent is a season of Hope.
When we realize that all of this; the lights, trees, smells, tastes and songs of Christmas-time are simply reminders of perfect LOVE born to us in a manger, we truly understand why …Advent is a season of Hope.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
