The Historical, Biblical, and Spiritual Significance of the Advent season

The Advent season, with its rich tapestry of traditions and symbols, has evolved over the centuries to become a cherished time of anticipation and reflection for Christians worldwide. Let’s explore the historical development of Advent, tracing its roots from the early Christian church to the diverse practices observed in contemporary times.

Early Christian Beginnings:

The origins of Advent can be traced back to the 4th and 5th centuries. Initially, Advent was a season of preparation and penance, mirroring the 40 days of Lent. The focus was not solely on the Nativity but also on the second coming of Christ. As such, Advent was a time of spiritual reflection, fasting, and repentance.

Liturgical Developments:

By the 6th century, the structure of Advent began to take a more formal shape in the Western Christian church. The Councils of Tours in 567 and Saragossa in 633 established Advent as a season of four to six weeks, emphasizing the themes of preparation and penance. During this period, Advent included a mix of fasting, prayer, and scriptural readings.

Introduction of Advent Candles:

The tradition of using candles to mark the weeks of Advent emerged in medieval Germany. The earliest record dates back to the 16th century when Christians lit a large candle each Sunday during Advent. The Advent wreath, as we know it today, gained popularity in the 19th century. Comprising four candles encircling a wreath, each candle represents a different week of Advent, with an additional white candle, the Christ candle, lit on Christmas Eve.

Contemporary Practices:

Contemporary Advent practices vary widely, encompassing a diverse range of traditions. Many churches incorporate Advent calendars, a popular innovation from the 19th century, to count down the days until Christmas. Additionally, the Advent wreath, candles, and special liturgical colors contribute to the visual and symbolic elements of the season.

Historical Summary:

The historical development of the Advent season reflects the dynamic nature of Christian worship and observance. From its early roots in penance and preparation to the diverse practices of today, Advent has evolved into a meaningful season that captures the essence of anticipation, reflection, and celebration. As Christians continue to honor this tradition, the historical journey of Advent serves as a testament to the enduring significance of preparing our hearts for the coming of Christ.

The Biblical and Spiritual Significance of the Advent Season

“Advent” is derived from the Latin word “adventus,” meaning “coming” or “arrival.” Advent marks the beginning of the liturgical year, leading up to the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas Day. Beyond the festive decorations and the anticipation of gifts, the biblical and spiritual significance of Advent is a profound journey of hope, preparation, joy, and love.

Week 1: Hope – The Candle of Expectation

But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord,

I wait for God my Savior;

My God will hear me. Micah 7:7 (NIV)

Advent initiates with the theme of hope, focusing on the anticipation of the promised Messiah. In the midst of darkness, both literal and metaphorical, the Advent candles remind us that a great light is coming into the world. This season prompts believers to reflect on the hope found in the prophecies of old, assuring that God’s promises endure, and His plan for redemption will be fulfilled.

As we light the first candle of Advent, let it remind us of the hope we have in our Savior. Just as the prophets of old anticipated the Messiah, we eagerly await His second coming. In this season of hope, let us fix our eyes on the promises of God, confident that He who began a good work in us will carry it on to completion.

Preparation – The Candle of Readiness

Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him. Matthew 3:3 (NIV)

As we progress through the Advent weeks, the focus shifts to preparation. Just as the prophets prepared the way for the Messiah, Advent calls us to prepare our hearts. It’s a time of self-reflection, repentance, and readiness to receive Christ anew. The call to prepare echoes the words of John the Baptist, urging us to make straight the paths for the Lord in our lives.

Let the second candle be a symbol of our preparation. Like John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus, let us prepare our hearts for His arrival. May this week be dedicated to self-reflection and repentance, clearing the paths of our hearts to welcome the Prince of Peace.

Joy – The Candle of Rejoicing

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” Luke 2:10 (NIV)

The third Sunday of Advent is marked by the theme of joy. The anticipation of the Messiah’s birth transforms into a celebration of the imminent arrival. The joy of Advent is not merely a fleeting emotion tied to the season’s festivities but a profound sense of rejoicing in the Savior who brings everlasting joy. It reflects the angelic proclamation of “good news of great joy” that heralded the birth of Christ.

In the glow of the third candle, let joy fill our hearts. The shepherds experienced the joy of the angels’ proclamation, and we too rejoice in the nearness of our Savior. This week, take time to reflect on the profound joy found in Christ’s birth, a joy that transcends circumstances and brings everlasting gladness.

Love – The Candle of Divine Love

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. John 3:16 (NIV)

The culmination of the Advent season centers around love. God’s ultimate expression of love is revealed through the gift of His Son. The nativity story unfolds the divine love that bridges the gap between the Creator and His creation. The birth of Jesus demonstrates God’s unconditional love, inviting us to love Him and one another sacrificially.

As we light the fourth candle, let the flame symbolize the love of God manifested in the gift of His Son. In this season of love, may we reflect on the sacrificial love demonstrated at the manger. Let us extend that love to others, embodying the true meaning of Christmas.

Conclusion

In essence, the historical, biblical, and spiritual significance of Advent is a journey through the core tenets of the Christian faith. It is an annual pilgrimage that mirrors the journey of the Magi to the manger. Advent compels us to await Christ’s arrival with the same longing as those who waited for the Messiah thousands of years ago.

Closing Prayer:

Gracious God, as we journey through the Advent season, fill our hearts with hope, prepare us for your coming, overflow us with joy, and saturate us with your boundless love. May the light of Advent shine brightly in our lives, guiding us to the manger where we encounter the greatest gift, your Son, Jesus Christ. In His holy name, we pray. Amen.

Matt Price is ACT's Director of Resources, Marketing & Development. He holds Master of Arts degrees in Church History and Communication Theory from Wheaton College. He has written more than a dozen books, including The Story of Christianity, that was jointly published by Dorling Kindersley and Tyndale House and has sold more than 300,000 copies worldwide.