Christmas Traditions # 4

#4 Advent

The word Advent means "coming" or "arrival." The focus of the entire season is the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ in his First Advent, and the anticipation of the return of Christ the King in his Second Advent. 

In our home, the Advent wreath was placed on the dining table and the candles lighted at meals, with Scripture readings preceding the lighting of the candles, especially on Sunday. A new candle is lighted each Sunday during the four weeks, and then the same candles are lighted each meal during the week. It provided the opportunity for family devotion and prayer together, and helped to teach the kids about the "reason for the season".  The kids where involved by lighting the candles, reading scriptures and saying prayers.

This is by far my favorite "tradition".  It really helps me to focus on the true meaning of Christmas and helps our family to focus on the reality of Jesus' birth and second coming.  

"For unto us a Child is born,

Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6

Merry Christmas, my friends!

Love, 

Julie