Advent Candle Readings 2024
Readings for Advent and Christmas Candle-lighting 2024
DEC. 1st: First Sunday of Advent Reading: Hope
Today we light the first purple candle. The Hope Candle, also known as the Prophecy Candle, represents the anticipation and hope of the Messiah’s coming. Purple symbolizes royalty and repentance as we prepare our hearts.
Consider the words from Isaiah 9:2, 6-7: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. […] For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.”
Let us pray: Lord, as we light this purple candle of hope, we remember that Your light pierces the darkness and brings hope to all who trust in You. Fill our hearts with anticipation for Your coming, and may we carry this hope into every corner of our lives. Amen.
DEC. 8th: Second Sunday of Advent Readings: Preparation and Peace
Today we light the second purple candle. The Peace Candle, or Preparation Candle, signifies the peace that Christ brings to our hearts and lives. Purple again symbolizes repentance and preparation for the Lord’s coming.
Hear the words from Isaiah 40:3-5: “A voice of one calling: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all people will see it together. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.’”
Let us pray: Father, as we light this candle of peace, we ask that You prepare our hearts for Your coming. Clear the paths in our lives that keep us from You, and make room in our hearts for Your peace and presence. May we welcome You with open hearts and lives prepared for Your glory. Amen.
DEC. 15th: Third Sunday of Advent Readings: Joy
Today we light the pink candle. The Joy Candle, also known as the Shepherd’s Candle, represents the joy of Christ’s coming and the celebration of His birth. The pink color reflects a shift from repentance to joy as we draw closer to Christmas.
Listen to the words from Matthew 2:10-11, “When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” (NIV)
Let us pray: God of Joy, we light this pink candle to celebrate the joy You brought into the world through Jesus. Fill our hearts with the same joy that the shepherds and wise men felt upon seeing Christ. May we spread this joy to others, letting it shine through our words and actions. Amen.
DEC. 22nd: Fourth Sunday of Advent Readings: Love
Today we light the third purple candle. The Love Candle, also known as the Angel’s Candle, symbolizes God’s love revealed in Christ. Purple reminds us once more of the royalty of Christ and the love that motivated God’s plan for salvation.
Hear the word of God in John 3:16-19, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.”
Let us Pray: Lord, as we light this candle of love, we thank You for sending Your Son, a gift of unconditional love. Let Your love fill our hearts this season and help us to love others as You have loved us. May Your love guide us and shine brightly through us in all we do. Amen.
DEC. 24th: Christmas Eve
Light the white center candle. The Christ Candle represents Jesus, the Light of the World, who has come to bring salvation and light to all. White symbolizes purity and holiness, reflecting the sinless nature of Christ.
Our Scripture Reading is John 1:14
"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us."
Let us pray: Gracious God, as we light the Christ Candle, we celebrate the birth of Your Son, Jesus, who came to be with us. We adore You, Jesus, and welcome You into our hearts and homes. May Your light fill us, and may we reflect Your love, joy, peace, and hope to a world in need. Thank You for the gift of Christ, our Savior and King. Amen.