In 2010, Advent starts on Sunday, November 28.
Meaning of advent
The idea behind Advent is that God came to earthly life and lived among us. The word “advent” is Latin for “coming or arrival.” Advent, as we know it today, is a creation of the Western churches. The theme of readings and teachings during Advent is often to prepare for the Second Coming while commemorating the First Coming of Christ at Christmas. With the view of directing the thoughts of Christians to the first coming of Jesus Christ as savior and to his second coming as judge, special readings are prescribed for each of the four Sundays in Advent. God loved us and wanted to share that love. In Advent, we thank God for Christ's first coming, prepare for his final coming at the “end of time”, and celebrate Christ's presence among us today through the Spirit.
What Every Adventists Believes:
“God's greatest desire is for you to see a clear picture of His character. When you see Him clearly, you will find His love irresistible.”
“In the heart of God is a place you can experience as home. God loves you, and wants to spend time with you personally, one on one, as two close friends.”
Advent Prayers
Each week of Advent will have a series of Daily Prayers. This kind of prayer can be done alone or with a friend, a spouse, or one's family.
Advent Wreaths and Candles
An advent wreath includes five candles. Out of these five candles, four candles are for four Sundays leading to Christmas and the fifth candle is for Christmas day. The four Sunday candles are usually tapered. There are variations in the colors of the candles, often there are one pink and three purple candles. Sometimes, all of the candles are purple. The central candle is usually a large white pillar candle.
The first candle is called the candle of Hope. It is otherwise called the Prophecy candle, because it symbolizes the promises the prophets delivered as messages from God about Christ’s birth.
The first candle is called the candle of Hope. It is otherwise called the Prophecy candle, because it symbolizes the promises the prophets delivered as messages from God about Christ’s birth.
The second candle is the candle of the Way. It tells that Christ is the Way.
The third candle is Pink in color and is called the candle of joy. It indicates that the only lasting Joy to be found in life on this earth is through Jesus. All other joy is non-permanent.
The fourth candle is the candle of Peace. It reminds us that Jesus is the only source of Peace and He comes to bring Peace to people's hearts.
The fifth candle is white in color and it represents Christ himself. He is born to save people from their sins. It is lit on Christmas day.
The fourth candle is the candle of Peace. It reminds us that Jesus is the only source of Peace and He comes to bring Peace to people's hearts.
The fifth candle is white in color and it represents Christ himself. He is born to save people from their sins. It is lit on Christmas day.
Advent Calendar 2010:
Free online Advent Calendar 2010
No comments:
Post a Comment