A-D-V-E-N-T, The Prophet's Candle

The desert and the dry land will be glad;

the wilderness will rejoice and blossom like the crocus.

They will burst into bloom, and rejoice with joy and singing.

They will receive the glory of Lebanon the splendor of Carmel and Sharon.

They will see the LORD’s glory, the splendor of our God.

Isaiah 35: 1-2 Common English Bible

A shoot will grow up from the stump of Jesse; a branch will sprout from his roots.

The LORD’s spirit will rest upon him, a spirit of wisdom and understanding,

aspirit of planning and strength, a spirit of knowledge and fear of the LORD.

Isaiah 11:1-2 Common English Bible

The first candle of Advent reminds us of the Hope of the coming of a savior, a descendent of King David, who will redeem humanity and restore a righteous relationship between God and all people.


Advent Devotional by Esther Arnison

“And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us,

and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only

begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.”

—John 1:14—

If we are going to celebrate the birth of Christ and its meaning for us, we must prepare ourselves for that unique experience. That preparation is the Advent season.
We must affirm our Christian faith; take the yes side, knowing that in a positive attitude toward Christian principles lies our joy.
We must discern that faith as it is, one that is truly distinct from others because the Christ who came as a baby was evidence of God’s faith in man.
We must venerate the God who sent the Son, keeping the Old Testament commandment: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God.”
We must embrace the precepts which Christ gave us to live by, not only voicing them, but living and dying for them.
We must nurture the Church that has grown out of the birth, life, and death of Christ Jesus, believing in the salvation He brought for all mankind.
We must transcend the difficulties and burdens that tempt us to turn from the star and the cross which symbolize our faith in God.

Prayer:
Most Gracious God, through Advent to Christmas and beyond, grant us Your love in our hearts, Your peace in our world, and Your kingdom for eternity. Amen