Advent invites us into a time of reflection. We are getting ready and waiting as we prepare for the celebration of Jesus’s birth and anticipate him making himself known among us. When I was young, I remember the joy. I relished the journeying towards Christmas with its childhood magic. I almost didn’t want Christmas Day to arrive because I loved the anticipation and joy of the Advent season so much. 

Sadly, as an adult, it has too often felt like a whirlwind: four weeks filled with social commitments, shopping trips, school plays, gift lists and a depleted bank account. I have been guilty of feeling a sense of dread, followed by willing it along to reach the end point! I realise that I had lost the meaning. I could blame social media and consumerism (and I will a bit!), but I know deep down it is my responsibility.

In Church, we light a candle of the Advent wreath on each Sunday in Advent. Each candle represents key people in the story of God’s coming to us as the Christ Child, Jesus. The first candle represents the fathers and mothers of faith, our ancestors. On the Second Sunday of Advent, we light a candle to remember the Prophets who foretold the coming of God’s Son. The third candle is lit to remind us of John the Baptist, who showed the way to Jesus. On the Fourth Sunday, we remember Mary the mother of Jesus. Finally, on Christmas morning, we light the centre candle for Christ the Light of the World. As each candle is lit, a little more darkness around the wreath is overcome.

We are all called to be the light of the world, to shine before others so that they can be given the light and know God. The Advent themes for each week can help us to reflect on how to live out Advent and guide those around us towards the real meaning and wonder of Christmas: hope, peace, joy and love. Perhaps we can ask these questions to help shape our mission:

Our ancestors of faith: As we look into the past, what can we learn from those who have come before us? How do we show hope?

The Prophets: Where do we see ourselves and our Church in the future? How will you share your faith?

John the Baptist: How do we show people what is here? How do we proclaim the Good News with joy?

Mary the Mother of Christ: How do you do all this with love and nurture?

Advent embraces the Way of Jesus and encourages us to live with hope, joy, love and peace in a world filled with darkness, fear and suffering. As we step forwards into Advent, remember to live it. Show hope, be peaceful, live joyfully, and spread love, remembering each time it is extinguishing a piece of darkness and making things new in Christ.

Sophie Molyneux

Trainee Pastoral Worker