The Advent Candle: The Prophets and Hope
27/11/05
Today, we begin our four-week journey to Christmas. A time of quiet growth, eager preparation and joyful anticipation. Each week we will seek out this silent and holy spot amidst the increasing frenzy of a commercialized Christmas season where we may stop to contemplate and meditate and hope.
This first Sunday of Advent we kindle the Prophets' Candle, symbolizing Hope. The prophets of the Old Testament urge us to prepare for the coming of the Messiah who brings light to a darkened world. We gather together to watch and wait.
As we light the Prophets' Candle of Hope, we hear the echo of the prophet Isaiah: "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined." (Isaiah 9:2). The time of salvation is at hand; the Messiah is on his way...
"Almighty Father, thank you for sending us your son, Jesus Christ, to infuse us with your light. Help us remember that we are Children of Light and we are no longer a people who walk in darkness. Give us strength to follow the example of the prophets of old who were ready and expectant. Make yourself known to us during these Advent days that we may feel a keen awareness of the light of your son. Amen."
This first Sunday of Advent we kindle the Prophets' Candle, symbolizing Hope. The prophets of the Old Testament urge us to prepare for the coming of the Messiah who brings light to a darkened world. We gather together to watch and wait.
As we light the Prophets' Candle of Hope, we hear the echo of the prophet Isaiah: "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined." (Isaiah 9:2). The time of salvation is at hand; the Messiah is on his way...
"Almighty Father, thank you for sending us your son, Jesus Christ, to infuse us with your light. Help us remember that we are Children of Light and we are no longer a people who walk in darkness. Give us strength to follow the example of the prophets of old who were ready and expectant. Make yourself known to us during these Advent days that we may feel a keen awareness of the light of your son. Amen."