Orland Evangelical Free Church | The Light of Advent

The beginning of advent is a time for the hanging of the green. Evergreen wreaths, boughs or trees help symbolize the new and everlasting life brought through Jesus Christ.

The light of the advent candles is also an important symbol of the season.

It reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world that comes into the darkness of our lives to bring newness, life, and hope, and that we are called to be a light to the world as we reflect the light of God's grace to others (Isa 42:6). The progression in the candle lighting symbolizes the various aspects of our waiting experience. As the candles are lighted over the four week period, it also symbolizes the darkness of fear and hopelessness receding and the shadows of sin falling away as more and more light is shed into the world. The flame of each new candle reminds the worshippers that something is happening, and that more is yet to come. Finally, the light that has come into the world is plainly visible as the Christ candle is lighted at Christmas, and worshippers rejoice over the fact that the promise of long ago has been realized.