Celebrating Advent

The word, ADVENT, means coming. During Advent, we celebrate the coming of baby Jesus in Bethlehem. Advent is the 1st Season of the Church year. It begins on the 4th Sunday before Christmas (this year December 3rd). Jesus’ birth fulfilled both the words of Israel’s prophets and the events that speak of God’s saving grace.

During ADVENT, we also recall and honor those who prepared the way for Jesus - especially those who welcomed His birth: people like Zechariah, Elizabeth, Mary, Joseph, and others. That’s why we hear stories and watch movies about His coming. It’s also why during the Christmas season, we sing carols of expectation.

Yet, our expectations are not limited to the past events of Bethlehem. Jesus is coming – not once – but also AGAIN - in the Church and even the world. WHEN He returns, it will be in great glory. Thus, ADVENT foretells a new reign of the kingdom of God.

The first candle purple candle symbolizes prophecy or hope. Luke 21 reminds us of the hope and anticipation as we await the “Son of Man coming in a cloud of glory”. Jesus assures us that the day will come for everyone in which the scriptures will be fulfilled. Song: That Spirit of Christmas

The second purple candle symbolizes the peace found in Bethlehem.

So, we watch and wait. We watch and wait as New Macedonia Baptist Church prepares liturgies with songs and the heart for our infant Savior. We watch and wait for He who comes to us, in scripture and in the Eucharist – He who feeds us with His life. We watch and wait for the One who comes to fulfill all things, to make all of creation new. WE watch 7 wait for Jesus!! – for He is coming. Song: O Little Town of Bethlehem.

The pink candle is the Shepherd’s Candle; it symbolizes JOY.

How joyful we feel as we approach the Christian arrival of Jesus on Christmas Day! As Gabriel announced the arrival of Jesus, the shepherds could not contain their happiness, as they sought Him out on that Holy Night. Song: Oh’ Holy Night

The fourth purple candle symbolizes love and is called the Angel’s Candle. Oh, the LOVE that God must have to sacrifice His Son, Jesus for us. Song: That Spirit of Christmas