The Meaning of Advent
I wanted to write something meaningful for you.My nature drives me to seek to know, so I did.The cursed internet can also be good fortune.Especially Wikipedia!So this is what I learned…Advent, a season of expectant waiting,A preparation for the celebrationOf the Nativity of the infant, Jesus,But also the expectation of His return.Since the time of Bernard of Clairvaux,Christians have longed for the three comings of Christ…In the flesh in Bethlehem.In our hearts, daily.In glory at the end of time.Traditions, beginning as early as the 5th Century AD…An Advent Calendar to mark the days from its first SundayUntil Christmas Day.4 weeks representing 4 seasons, 4 cardinal virtues.A Nativity Fast:A period of abstinence and humilityIn the belief that learning to temper the body’s primary desire for foodCan temper other worldly desires, as well.Emphasis is placed on the spiritual facet of a fastTo refrain from anger, greed, covetousness.The Advent Wreath or Crown;Evergreen leaves woven in a circular pattern to representThe eternal life offeredBy Jesus Christ.A White candle in the midst of the wreath symbolizingThe Light of God coming into the world throughThe Birth of Jesus Christ,3 violet candles circling the Christ candle to symbolizeHopePeaceLove.1 rose candle to call us to rejoice inJoy.A simple wreath can mean so much…A crown of victory.A circular form like the sun and its annual traverse.The green of an evergreen as life, hope, and the eternity of God.Evergreen firs as strength.Laurel greens as victory over sin and suffering.The candles’ flame of light and hope in the struggle against darkness.Holly as the crown of thorns.4 candles as the ‘great stages of salvation’:
1st - Forgiveness of Adam and Eve2nd - Faith of Abraham3rd - Joy of David and his covenant with God4th - Teachings of the prophets announcing the reign of justice and peace.
My days of marking Advent will carry much more meaning for me this season,Having sought and found so much.I hope each day of your Advent seasonTouches your heart with the eternal light of GodOffered to us through the birth of Jesus Christ.Susan Ceely Philips