Hope, Peace, Joy and Love. Advent Day Four 04/12/24

Welcome to day four of our Advent devotional journey together. Today, we're exploring something truly special - the deeply meaningful tradition of the Advent wreath, a cherished symbol that has brought comfort and inspiration to Christians through the ages and across denominations.

I find it remarkable how this simple yet profound tradition manages to touch our hearts so deeply, weaving together beautiful themes of hope, preparation and joyful anticipation in a way that speaks to our modern lives. When we gather around the Advent wreath, whether at Mass, alone in quiet contemplation or with loved ones, we're participating in a sacred ritual that connects us not only to each other but to generations of faithful people who have walked this path before us. In our fast-paced world, there's something deeply moving about marking time this way, allowing the gentle flicker of candlelight to guide our thoughts and prayers as we journey together towards the miracle of Christmas.

The History

You might be fascinated to know that this beautiful tradition has its roots in 16th century Germany, where our Christian ancestors were seeking a meaningful way to count down to Christmas. Picture it: the awe-inspiring sight of large white candles suspended from church ceilings - that's how it all began! Over the centuries, this practice evolved organically, shaped by the hands and hearts of countless faithful communities, until it became the familiar arrangement we know today: three purple candles and one rose-pink, each telling its own part of the story. What I find particularly wonderful is how this tradition has transcended all sorts of boundaries - geographical, denominational and cultural - touching hearts from Canterbury to Calcutta.

The Symbolism 

• The Circle: Imagine holding something that represents God's infinite love - that's what the circular wreath symbolises. Like a ring without beginning or end, it reminds us of the completeness and perfection of divine grace. Rather lovely when you think about it, isn't it?
• Evergreen Branches: These steadfast branches speak to us of God's unwavering faithfulness. Just as they remain vibrant through the darkest winter days, so God's presence endures through all seasons of our lives - through our victories and challenges, our joys and sorrows.
• Four Candles: Each candle is like a chapter in our Advent story, illuminating another facet of our spiritual preparation. As we light them one by one, we're invited to reflect more deeply on our own faith journey. Each candle of the Advent wreath represents key spiritual themes celebrated during the weeks leading up to Christmas: Hope (first purple candle), Peace (second purple candle), Joy (pink candle), and Love (final purple candle). Each candle is lit successively over the four weeks of Advent, progressively illuminating the wreath as Christmas approaches.

The meaning behind the candles; Hope, Peace, Joy and Love 🕯️

• Week 1 (Purple) - 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. This powerful prophecy resonates deeply with our modern hearts, offering a beacon of hope in uncertain times. As we light this first candle, we're reminded that just as the ancient Israelites awaited their Messiah, we too wait with expectant hearts. Consider setting aside time this week to reflect on where you need hope in your life, and how this ancient promise speaks to those needs.
• Week 2 (Purple) - Peace: And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:7. In our hyperconnected world of constant notifications and endless demands, this second candle beckons us toward divine peace. This isn't just the absence of conflict, but a profound inner stillness that comes from knowing God's presence. This week, try creating small moments of sacred silence - perhaps during your morning coffee or evening commute - to let this peace permeate your soul.
• Week 3 (Pink) - Joy: "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" - Philippians 4:4. Gaudete Sunday arrives like a burst of dawn in our Advent journey! This rose-coloured candle, breaking through the purple of preparation, reminds us that Christian joy transcends mere happiness. It's a deep-seated gladness that persists even in life's challenges. On Gaudete Sunday, we celebrate the joy of anticipation, knowing that our waiting will soon give way to celebration. This week, consider journaling about moments of unexpected joy in your life and how they reflect God's presence.
• Week 4 (Purple) - 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." - John 3:16. The final purple candle illuminates the culmination of our Advent journey - God's extraordinary love story with humanity. This familiar verse takes on new depth as we approach Christmas, reminding us that love isn't just an emotion but an action. God's love took the form of a tiny baby in a manger and continues to transform our world today. This week, contemplate how you might actively demonstrate this divine love to others - perhaps through acts of service, words of encouragement, or simply being present for someone in need.

Today's reflection

Take a moment to consider: Where in your daily life could you carve out a sacred space for stillness? What distractions might you need to set aside?

Reflect on your spiritual practices: How consistent are they? What Scripture passages speak most deeply to your heart during this season of waiting?

Ponder this question: In what tangible ways could you be a light in your community this Advent season? Who might need to experience Christ's love through your actions?

Prayer

Dear Lord, as we light each candle on our Advent wreath, let their growing radiance illuminate our hearts with Your divine presence and transforming grace. Like these flames that pierce through winter's darkness with their gentle yet persistent light, may Your guiding presence lead us through this sacred season of preparation. Help us to fully embrace and embody the hope, peace, joy and love that each candle represents, and may their gentle, steadfast glow remind us daily of Your coming glory. As our wreath grows brighter week by week, transform us more deeply into faithful bearers of Your light in this world.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Your Personal Invitation

Make this Advent season more meaningful and spiritually enriching by creating your own personal Advent wreath tradition. Whether you choose to craft a traditional wreath with fresh evergreen boughs or simply arrange four meaningful candles, let each weekly lighting become a sacred moment of reflection, prayer and family gathering. As the wreath grows progressively brighter with each passing week, may it serve as a beautiful reminder of Christ's light growing ever stronger in your life and heart.

God bless,

Mel