Many families celebrate the portion of the Christmas season known as Advent by the lighting of Christmas Advent candles and using Christmas chocolate Advent calendars to mark the days of December until Christmas day arrives. But do you know the history of Advent?
Advent is a season observed by Western Christians, starting on the 4th Sunday before Christmas, when they reflect on the true meaning of the season and the ultimate gift of God’s son.
It is also a time of expectant waiting as Christians look forward to the second coming of Christ.
History of Advent and the Changing View
During the 4th and 5th century, the focus of Advent was on the Epiphany, which is focusing on the various events in the life of Christ while he was on earth.
Sometime during the 6th century, the focus changed to Christians looking forward to the second coming of Christ.
Some of the symbols of Advent such as those Advent candles have their roots in pre-Christian times.
Ancient Germans would gather evergreen branches during the winter months and either made them into wreaths or laid them on window sills lighting candles to show their hope that spring would again come.
Early Christians kept the wreaths and candles, but instead of the candles signifying the hope of spring, it signified the belief of their hope in Jesus Christ.
For many people, Advent is more an afterthought than forethought, with the Advent season being little more than a countdown to Christmas day.
Even among Christians, the meaning of Advent tends to fall by the way in the hustle and bustle of preparing family meals, attending social events, and the purchasing of gifts.
It is only in those odd moments when those doors to those Christmas calendars open or an Advent candle is lit do people pause and reflect on the true meaning of the season.
Advent Calendars for your Family
The Wonder of the Greatest Gift: An Interactive Family Celebration of Advent
Disney TSUM TSUM Advent CalendarFisher-Price Little People Advent Calendar
